Navy Federal Credit Union

George Wilson was one of 22 members of the Andrews Raid, who was captured and subsequently executed. 19 of the raiders were awarded the Medal of Honor during the Civil War, but Wilson was overlooked..On July 3, 2024, he and one other overlooked member of the raid was finally posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Division:

    2d Ohio Infantry

    Action Date:

    April 12, 1862

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Private George D. Wilson, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 12 April, 1862, while serving with Company K, 2d Ohio Infantry, in action during the Andrew’s Raid in Georgia. Private Wilson was one of 22 Andrews’ Raiders who, by direction of Major Ormsby M. Mitchell, penetrated nearly 200 miles south into enemy territory. Upon capturing a railroad train at Big Shanty in Georgia, the group set out to complete their mission of disrupting enemy supply lines by destroying bridges and tracks between Chattanooga and Atlanta. Private Wilson’s gallant actions in close contact with the enemy were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Army of the Ohio, and the United States Army.