Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
William
Edward
Birkhimer
March 1, 1848

–

June 10, 1914

Cemetery:

Arlington National Cemetery

William Birkhimer graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1870. After receiving his award in 1902, Major Birkhimer suggested to the military secretary in Washington that “every possible attention should be paid to formality and solemnity of circumstance” in the award of the Medal of Honor. It was this suggestion that led to President Roosevelt’s Executive Order on 20 September 1905 that award of the Medal “will always be made with formal and impressive ceremonial” and that when practicable, the award would be presented in our Capitol City by the U.S. President. William Birkhimer retired as a U.S. Army Brigadier General.

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    3d Artillery

    Action Date:

    May 13, 1899
    Date of Issue: July 15, 1902

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Captain (Infantry) William Edward Birkhimer, United States Army, for most distinguished gallantry on 13 May 1899, while serving with 3d Artillery, in action at San Miguel de Mayumo, Luzon, Philippine Islands. With 12 men Captain Birkhimer charged and routed 300 of the enemy.