George L. Houghton

George L. Houghton was an American soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Serving as a private in the U.S. Army, he distinguished himself through acts of bravery during a critical engagement in Tennessee.

On July 2, 1863, during the actions at Elk River, Tennessee, Houghton led a party that successfully saved a bridge from destruction. This critical action preserved a key route for Union forces during the campaign.

For his extraordinary heroism and leadership during the battle, Houghton was later recognized with the United States military's highest decoration. He was officially honored with the Medal of Honor on March 27, 1900, decades after his service.