Michael Dougherty (soldier)

Led a detachment across an open field to secure a position.

Michael Dougherty crossed an open field under deadly fire at the head of a small detachment, drove Confederate troops from a house, and then helped hold the position for hours.

Born in Falcarragh, County Donegal, Ireland, on May 10, 1844, Dougherty served as a private in Company B, 13th Pennsylvania Cavalry, also designated the 117th Pennsylvania Volunteers. At Jefferson, Virginia, on October 12, 1863, his detachment seized the house and resisted repeated attacks. Their stand prevented the enemy from turning the Union flank.

Medal of Honor Citation (condensed): Led a detachment across an exposed field under heavy fire, drove the enemy from a house, and defended it for several hours, preventing a flanking movement against Union forces.

Dougherty died in Bristol, Pennsylvania, on February 19, 1930, and was buried in St. Mark's Cemetery.