Michael McCarthy left the Army, then joined the Washington National Guard, retiring as a colonel in the early 1900s after a career on the Adjutant General’s staff.
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Michael McCarthy left the Army, then joined the Washington National Guard, retiring as a colonel in the early 1900s after a career on the Adjutant General’s staff.
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The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to First Sergeant Michael McCarthy, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on June, 1876 to January, 1877, while serving with Troop H, 1st U.S. Cavalry, in action at White Bird Canyon, Idaho. First Sergeant McCarthy was detailed with six 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 two horses shot from under him, and was captured, but escaped and reported for duty after three days’ hiding and wandering in the mountains.