The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Captain of the Top John F. Bickford, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864. Acting as the first loader of the pivot gun during this bitter engagement Captain of the Top Bickford exhibited marked coolness and good conduct and was highly recommended for his gallantry under fire by his divisional officer.