John May (Medal of Honor)

John May was a Private in the United States Army who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the American Civil War. He was awarded the medal for his bravery during the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House, Virginia, on May 12, 1864.

May served with Company K, 6th Pennsylvania Reserves. During the intense fighting at Spotsylvania, May distinguished himself by capturing the flag of the 7th Louisiana Infantry (Confederate States Army). His act of valor occurred amidst heavy enemy fire and contributed to the Union effort to break the Confederate lines.

May's Medal of Honor was issued on August 13, 1868. His citation specifically recognized his capture of the enemy flag as a sign of conspicuous gallantry. Little further information is publicly available regarding his life before or after his military service.