George Crawford Platt

George Crawford Platt was an Irish-born soldier who immigrated to the United States and served in the federal army during the American Civil War. He enlisted as a private in Troop H of the 6th U.S. Cavalry, a regiment that saw extensive action throughout the conflict.

On July 3, 1863, during the Battle of Gettysburg, Platt's unit was engaged in intense action near Fairfield, Pennsylvania. It was during this critical engagement that he performed the action that would define his military service, engaging in hand-to-hand combat to protect the American flag from capture by Confederate forces.

For his gallantry and decisive actions at Fairfield, Platt was later awarded the Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration for valor. He was later promoted to the rank of Sergeant, and his legacy remains honored as a symbol of dedication and courage under fire.