John Breckinridge Babcock
Born: February 7, 1847 at New Orleans, Louisiana
Home Town: Stonington, Connecticut
Date of Issue: September 18, 1897
The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to First Lieutenant (Cavalry) John Breckinridge Babcock, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 16 May 1869, while serving with 5th U.S. Cavalry, in action at Spring Creek, Nebraska. While serving with a scouting column, First Lieutenant Babcock’s troop was attacked by a vastly superior force of Indians. Advancing to high ground, he dismounted his men, remaining mounted himself to encourage them, and there fought the Indians until relieved, his horse being wounded.
