William R. D. Blackwood

Surgeon William Robert Douglas Blackwood was an Irish-born soldier who served as an officer and medical doctor in the United States Army during the American Civil War. Serving with distinction, he rose to the rank of Brevet Lieutenant Colonel, providing vital medical care and leadership during some of the war's most grueling campaigns.

On April 2, 1865, during the Third Battle of Petersburg in Virginia, Blackwood performed the actions that would distinguish him as a premier military hero. Under heavy enemy fire, he demonstrated exceptional bravery in treating and removing wounded soldiers from the battlefield, saving numerous lives at great personal risk.

For his gallantry and devotion to duty at Petersburg, Blackwood was officially honored with the Medal of Honor on July 21, 1897. His legacy remains that of a dedicated military surgeon who combined his medical expertise with extraordinary courage under fire.