E. Michael Burk

E. Michael Burk
Born1847
Ireland
DiedFebruary 3, 1878
New York City
Buried
St. Mary's Cemetery
Allegiance United States of America
Service / branch United States Army
Years of service1862 - 1865
RankPrivate
UnitNew York (state) 125th Regiment New York Volunteer Infantry
Battles / warsBattle of Spotsylvania Court House
Awards Medal of Honor

Private E. Michael Burk (1847 – February 3, 1878) was an Irish soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Burk received the United States' highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action during the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House in Virginia on 12 May 1864. He was honored with the award on 1 December 1864.[1][2][3]

Biography

Burk was born in Ireland in 1847. He joined the 125th New York Infantry in August 1862, claiming to be 18 years old. He was captured following the Battle of Harpers Ferry, but was paroled the next day. After his Medal of Honor action, he remained in the hospital until his regiment was mustered out.[4] Burk died on 3 February 1878[2] and his remains are interred at the St. Mary's Cemetery.

Medal of Honor citation

Capture of flag, seizing it as his regiment advanced over the enemy's works. He received a bullet wound in the chest while capturing flag.[1][2][3]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b "Civil War (A-L) Medal of Honor Recipients". Archived from the original on 3 March 2016. Retrieved 22 October 2013.
  2. ^ a b c "E. Michael Burk". Archived from the original on 29 October 2013. Retrieved 22 October 2013.
  3. ^ a b "Burk, E. Michael". Retrieved 22 October 2013.
  4. ^ Regimental Roster