James H. Burbank

An infantry sergeant’s gallantry aboard a gunboat

James H. Burbank received the Medal of Honor for action aboard a gunboat during the American Civil War. Born in the Netherlands on January 5, 1838, he served as a sergeant in Company K of the 4th Rhode Island Infantry.

On October 3, 1862, Burbank was on detached service aboard the gunboat Barney on the Blackwater River near Franklin, Virginia. His official citation recognizes gallantry during the action. Although an Army infantryman, his honored service took place aboard a naval vessel.

Burbank’s Medal of Honor was presented on July 27, 1896. He died in Miltonvale, Kansas, on February 15, 1911, and was buried in Miltonvale Cemetery. His award commemorates courage while serving away from his regiment on a gunboat assignment.

Official Medal of Honor citation

Gallantry in action while on detached service on board the gunboat Barney.