when was the first medal of honor awarded
Bernard J.D. Irwin was an Assistant Surgeon in the Army when he voluntarily led a command of troops to relieve a surrounded detachment of the 7th Infantry. Irwinâs Medal was not awarded until January 24,1894, over 30 years after he had performed his deed. But on March 25, 1863 Pvt. Jacob Parrott was the first of a group of 6 men awarded the Medal for their actions in The Great Locomotive Chase in April 1862. They were the first ever to wear the Medal of Honor.