Navy Federal Credit Union

After the Civil War Orion Howe was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, and graduated with the Class of 1870.

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Musician

    Division:

    55th Illinois Infantry

    Action Date:

    May 19, 1863

    Date of Issue: April 23, 1896

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Musician Orion Perseus Howe, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 19 May 1863, while serving with Company C, 55th Illinois Infantry, in action at Vicksburg, Mississippi. A drummer boy, 13 years of age, and severely wounded and exposed to a heavy fire from the enemy, Orion Howe persistently remained upon the field of battle until he had reported to General W. T. Sherman the necessity of supplying cartridges for the use of troops under command of Colonel Malmborg.