John Coughlin (soldier)

Saving artillery guns from a sudden night attack

John Coughlin was a lieutenant colonel in the 10th New Hampshire Infantry during the Civil War. At Swift Creek, Virginia, on May 9, 1864, a sudden night attack threw Burnham’s Brigade into confusion. Acting without waiting for orders, Coughlin advanced his regiment between the enemy and Hunt’s Battery, repelling the attack and protecting the guns.

Born in Vermont in 1837, he later held the brevet rank of brigadier general. His Medal of Honor was presented on August 31, 1893. He died on May 27, 1912, and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

Medal of Honor citation

During a sudden night attack upon Burnham's Brigade, resulting in much confusion, this officer, without waiting for orders, led his regiment forward and interposed a line of battle between the advancing enemy and Hunt's Battery, repulsing the attack and saving the guns.