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Organization: Company D, 2d Wisconsin Infantry
Entered Service: Janesville, Rock County, Wisconsin
Birth: 25 March 1842, Norway
Date Medal Issued: 28 August 1893.
Date of Action: 17 Sept, 13 Dec 1862
Place of Action: Antietam, Md., Fredericksburg, Va.
Citation
Conspicuous gallantry in battle in which he was severely wounded [Fredericksburg]. While serving as cannoneer he manned the positions of fallen gunners [Antietam].
More about this award
He was cited for his actions in two battles. Antietam, and Fredericksburg (13 December 1862).
At Antietam he had volunteered to serve with Battery B, 4th US Artillery, and worked as a cannoneer in and near the Cornfield on the morning of September 17th. He assisted Brigadier General John Gibbon and two others in firing a cannon about to be over run by the enemy. The double canister at point blank range was critical at turning back the charge and saving the battery.
At Fredericksburg he was cited for his perseverence while seriously wounded. He was bringing case shot to his gun when a piece of shrapnel severed his right arm, carrying away much of his shoulder. He continued to load the gun until loss of blood caused him to faint.