Benjamin Lloyd

This entry details the American Civil War Medal of Honor recipients alphabetically from G through L. During the American Civil War, the Medal of Honor was established as the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government, bestowed upon service members who distinguished themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their lives above and beyond the call of duty.

Many of the decorations earned during this conflict were awarded for the critical acts of capturing or saving regimental flags. In Civil War tactics, these flags served as vital rallying points that guided unit movements. The loss of a regimental flag could cause severe disruption to a unit, often carrying a greater tactical impact than the loss of its commanding officer.

The Medal of Honor remains the nation's premier award for valor in combat, frequently awarded posthumously due to the extreme danger of the actions required to earn it.