Samuel Robertson (Medal of Honor)

Samuel Robertson was a private in the United States Army who served during the American Civil War. He holds the solemn distinction of being the first American soldier to be posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

In April 1862, Robertson participated in the Great Locomotive Chase, a daring military operation behind Confederate lines. Operating near Big Shanty, Georgia, he and his fellow raiders successfully penetrated enemy territory in an effort to disrupt the Confederate rail network.

Robertson was captured following the raid and was subsequently executed by the Confederates. In recognition of his extreme gallantry and ultimate sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in September 1863.