Henry S. Finkenbiner

Crossing a burning bridge under artillery fire

Henry S. Finkenbiner received the Medal of Honor for reconnaissance during the American Civil War. Born in North Industry, Ohio, on July 29, 1842, he served with Company D of the 107th Ohio Infantry.

On April 9, 1865, Private Finkenbiner was on the advance skirmish line at Dingles Mill, South Carolina. Despite close enemy artillery fire, he crossed the mill race on a burning bridge to determine the enemy’s position. His official citation recognized that hazardous effort to obtain information.

Finkenbiner attained the rank of corporal. His Medal of Honor was presented on March 30, 1898. He died in Danville, Illinois, on June 3, 1922, and was buried in Hopewell Cemetery in Indiana. His award commemorates courage on an exposed reconnaissance mission.

Official Medal of Honor citation

While on the advance skirmish line and within direct and close fire of the enemy's artillery, crossed the mill race on a burning bridge and ascertained the enemy's position.