John Green

Leading an advance across the lava beds

John Green was born on November 20, 1825, in Wurttemberg, Germany. He served as a major in the 1st U.S. Cavalry during the Army's nineteenth-century campaigns in the American West.

On January 17, 1873, in the Lava Beds of California, Green moved in front of his line despite great danger. His purpose was to reassure and encourage the soldiers under his command. Following his example, they advanced across the lava toward opponents concealed among the rocks. His Medal of Honor citation recognizes leadership by personal exposure rather than describing an individual rescue or capture.

He received the award on November 18, 1897. The official record lists his highest rank as brevet brigadier general. Green died in Boise, Idaho, on November 22, 1908, and was buried at Morris Hill Cemetery. His award preserves recognition of a commander's efforts to steady his troops on difficult terrain under fire.

Official Medal of Honor citation: In order to reassure his command, this officer, in the most fearless manner and exposed to very great danger, walked in front of the line; the command, thus encouraged, advanced over the lava upon the Indians who were concealed among the rocks.