Michael M. McCarthy (April 19, 1845 - January 12, 1914) was a Canadian US Army soldier who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Indian Wars. He was born in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.
After immigrating to New York, McCarthy enlisted in the army in November 1865, a few months after the American Civil War. He later reached the rank of first sergeant and served in the Nez Perce War, during which he was involved in action that earned him the Medal of Honor.[1] He was discharged in May 1879. After settling in Walla Walla, Washington, McCarthy joined the Washington National Guard and became a commissioned officer. In December 1897, he was promoted to colonel and was appointed Quartermaster General of the Washington National Guard. He retired from the National Guard in October 1905.
McCarthy died from a cerebral hemorrhage in Walla Walla, and was buried in Mountain View Cemetery.
Medal of Honor citation[]
Rank and organization: First Sergeant, 1st U.S. Cavalry. Place and date: At White Bird Canyon, Idaho., June 1876 - January 1877(sic White Bird Canyon battle took place in June 1877). Entered service at: ------ Birth: St. John's, Newfoundland. Date of issue: November 20, 1897.[1]
Was detailed with 6 men to hold a commanding position, and held it with great gallantry until the troops fell back. He then fought his way through the Indians, rejoined a portion of his command, and continued the fight in retreat. He had 2 horses shot from under him, and was captured, but escaped and reported for duty after 3 days' hiding and wandering in the mountains.
References[]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Medal of Honor Recipients: Indian Wars Period". U.S. Army Center of Military History. 3 December 2010. https://history.army.mil/html/moh/indianwars.html.
External links[]
- Michael M. McCarthy at Find a Grave
The original article can be found at Michael M. McCarthy and the edit history here.