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★Victoria Cross

A comprehensive archive of decorated military heroes from Commonwealth, American, and allied traditions, ranked by the Unified Scoring Matrix (USM-25). Honouring valour through history.

USM-25.2Scoring Standard

Scored under the Unified Scoring Matrix (USM-25)

James H. Turpin — Victoria Cross

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Service Profile

Branch: U.S. Army
Rank: First Sergeant
Service Era: American Indian Wars
Medals Recorded: 2

James H. Turpin

First Sergeant, U.S. Army

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American Indian Wars

Awards & Decorations

Medal of Honor 1862-1895 Army
Indian Campaign Medal

Ribbon Rack

Biography

A first sergeant’s gallantry in Arizona

James H. Turpin received the Medal of Honor for his service during the Indian Campaigns. Born in Easton, Massachusetts, in 1846, he served as first sergeant of Company L in the 5th U.S. Cavalry.

Turpin distinguished himself in actions with Apaches in Arizona Territory during 1872. His official citation recognizes gallantry across those engagements rather than identifying a single detailed episode. His Medal of Honor was presented on April 12, 1875.

Turpin died in Denver, Colorado, on May 30, 1893, and was buried in Fairmount Cemetery there. His award commemorates courage while serving as a senior enlisted cavalryman in the Arizona campaigns.

Official Medal of Honor citation

Gallantry in actions with Apaches.

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