Rufus Saxton

Led the steadfast defense of a vital post under heavy siege.

Rufus Saxton's Medal of Honor recognized not a single dramatic instant but the sustained defense of Harpers Ferry during a dangerous week in the Shenandoah Valley. A West Point graduate and Union brigadier general, Saxton commanded the defenses there from 26 to 30 May 1862 as Confederate forces threatened the post.

His official citation praised his distinguished gallantry and good conduct in the defense. The award reflected the steadiness of a commander charged with holding a strategically important position under severe pressure.

Medal of Honor Citation (condensed)

For distinguished gallantry and good conduct in the defense of Harpers Ferry, Virginia, from 26 to 30 May 1862.

Saxton had graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1849 and served in the Regular Army before the Civil War. During the war he also served in the Department of the South, where his duties included military government and recruiting Black soldiers for Union service. He remained in the Army for decades after the war and eventually held the brevet rank of major general. Born at Greenfield, Massachusetts, on 19 October 1824, he died in Washington, D.C., on 23 February 1908 and was buried in Arlington National Cemetery.