Ruel Milton Johnson

Braved enemy fire to rally and inspire his infantry troops.

Ruel Milton Johnson was an American soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Johnson received the Medal of Honor, his country's highest award for bravery in combat, for his extraordinary heroism at the Battle of Missionary Ridge on November 25, 1863, while a major in temporary command of the 100th Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He was honored with the award on August 24, 1896. Johnson was later promoted to lieutenant colonel, and commanded the 100th Indiana from May 2, 1865, until it was mustered out on June 8, 1865. After the Civil War, Johnson worked as a lawyer, and died in 1901 in Goshen, Indiana.

Verified service: 100th Indiana Infantry. At Missionary Ridge on 25 November 1863, while temporarily commanding the regiment, he exposed himself to enemy fire to encourage his men. Born 5 June 1836 in Harborcreek Township, Pennsylvania; later practiced law in Indiana; died 12 November 1901 in Goshen, Indiana.

Sources: https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/ruel-milton-johnson