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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)

John A. Kirkwood — Victoria Cross

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Service Profile

Branch: U.S. Army
Rank: Sergeant
Service Era: American Indian Wars, Battle of Slim Buttes
Medals Recorded: 2

John A. Kirkwood

Sergeant, U.S. Army

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American Indian WarsBattle of Slim Buttes

Awards & Decorations

Medal of Honor
Indian Campaign Medal

Ribbon Rack

Biography

Trying to dislodge Sioux fighters hidden in a rugged ravine.

John A. Kirkwood served as a sergeant in Company M, 3rd U.S. Cavalry. At Slim Buttes in Dakota Territory on September 9, 1876, he attempted to dislodge Sioux fighters concealed in a ravine. His conduct earned the Medal of Honor.

Born in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, on October 29, 1851, Kirkwood received his medal on October 16, 1877. He died in Washington, D.C., on May 10, 1930, and was buried at Soldiers’ Home National Cemetery.

Medal of Honor citation

Bravely endeavored to dislodge some Sioux Indians secreted in a ravine.

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