James Jackson (Medal of Honor)

James Jackson was a distinguished American officer who served in the United States Army during the mid- to late-19th century. He initially served as a captain with the 12th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War, later transitioning to the regular army to serve with the 1st U.S. Cavalry during the Indian Wars.

While fighting the Nez Percé at the Battle of Camas Meadows in Idaho on August 20, 1877, Jackson risked his life under heavy enemy fire to recover the body of a fallen soldier, preventing its mutilation by the enemy. For this conspicuous act of bravery, he was awarded the nation's highest military decoration nearly twenty years later.

Following his active field service, Jackson continued his military career and was posthumously promoted to the rank of Brigadier General. His legacy remains as a testament to the bravery and dedication of frontier-era cavalry officers.