William W. Kendall

William Wesley Kendall's Medal of Honor action came five days before the famous 22 May assault at Vicksburg. At Black River Bridge on 17 May 1863, he led his company into the enemy works and was the first man through.

Born in Hall Township, Dubois County, Indiana, on 31 August 1839, Kendall served as first sergeant of Company A, 49th Indiana Infantry and later became a first lieutenant. During the fight at Black River Bridge he voluntarily led the company in a charge, entered the Confederate works first, and took prisoners.

Medal of Honor Citation (condensed): Kendall voluntarily led his company in a charge at Black River Bridge, was first into the enemy works, and captured a number of prisoners.

The Medal of Honor was presented on 12 February 1894. Kendall died at West Baden, Indiana, on 14 August 1920 and was buried in Ames Chapel Cemetery.

His verified rack consists of the Medal of Honor and the Army Civil War Campaign Medal, with no device.