Clifford Thomson Explained

Clifford Thomson (April 15, 1834 - September 29, 1912) was an American soldier who fought as a First Lieutenant with the 1st New York Cavalry in the American Civil War.^[1] He was awarded the medal for actions at the Battle of Chancellorsville.^[2]

Thomson was later promoted to major and reassigned to the 5th United States Colored Cavalry.

After the war, he became a companion of the New York Commandery of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States.

Thomson was born in Fulton, Oswego County, New York^[3] and was buried in Holy Sepulchre, St. John & Paul Cemetery in East Orange, New Jersey.

Medal of Honor Citation

Volunteered to ascertain the character of approaching troops; rode up so closely as to distinguish the features of the enemy, and as he wheeled to return they opened fire with musketry, the Union troops returning same. Under a terrific fire from both sides Lieutenant Thomson rode back unhurt to the Federal lines, averting a disaster to the Army by his heroic act.^[4]

Date Issued: 27 November, 1897^[5]

Notes and References

1. Web site: Clifford Thomson U.S. Civil War U.S. Army Medal of Honor Recipient. 2021-05-22. Congressional Medal of Honor Society. en.
2. News: Cook. Joan. 1988-05-29. History Buff Tracking Medal of Honor Holders. en-US. The New York Times. 2021-05-22. 0362-4331.
3. Web site: Groom. Debra J.. Post-St. The. ard. 2011-05-29. On the 150th anniversary of the Medal of Honor, more about some Central New Yorkers who earned their country's highest tribute. 2021-05-22. syracuse. en.
4. Web site: Medal Of Honor Details - The Civil War (U.S. National Park Service). 2021-05-22. www.nps.gov. en.
5. Web site: Clifford Thomson - Recipient -. 2021-05-22. valor.militarytimes.com. en.