Wilson Brown (Medal of Honor)

Wilson Brown (c. 1834 – April 19, 1900) was a United States Navy Ordinary Seaman who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the American Civil War. He was one of the first African Americans to be awarded the Medal of Honor.

Brown earned the award for his bravery while serving on board the USS Hartford during the Battle of Mobile Bay on August 5, 1864. Despite heavy fire, Brown maintained his post and performed his duties with exceptional coolness and skill, contributing significantly to the Union victory.

His Medal of Honor citation reads: "On board the U.S.S. Hartford during successful attacks against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram Tennessee, in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864. As his ship steered into the bay Brown served at his battle station valiantly during the furious fire of the enemy and in the destruction of the ram Tennessee, was conspicuously good and deserving of commendation."

Brown continued to serve in the Navy after the Civil War and later worked as a laborer. He is buried in the National Cemetery in Natchez, Mississippi. His story is an example of the contributions of African Americans to the Union cause during the Civil War and a testament to his personal courage and dedication.