William Taylor (Medal of Honor)

William Taylor's Medal of Honor recognized gallantry in two separate Virginia actions more than two years apart.

Born in Washington, D.C., in 1836, Taylor served in the Union Army, first as a sergeant and later as an officer in the 1st Maryland Infantry. At Front Royal on 23 May 1862 he was wounded while helping destroy a bridge under fire. On 19 August 1864 at Weldon Railroad he volunteered for a hazardous reconnaissance and captured prisoners.

Medal of Honor Citation (condensed): Taylor was recognized for gallantry while destroying a bridge under fire at Front Royal on 23 May 1862 and for volunteering for a dangerous reconnaissance at Weldon Railroad on 19 August 1864.

His Medal of Honor was presented on 2 August 1897. Taylor later held the rank of captain. He died on 6 April 1902 in Baltimore, Maryland, and was buried in Loudon Park National Cemetery.

His verified rack consists of the Medal of Honor and the Army Civil War Campaign Medal. No clasp, service star, or other ribbon device is supported.