02 March 2008

Medal of Honor: R. Binder

RICHARD BINDER

Sergeant, US Marine Corps; USS Ticonderoga

Born: 1840, Philadelphia, Pa.

Citation: On board the [screw sloop] U.S.S. Ticonderoga during the attacks on Fort Fisher [near Wilmington, North Carolina], 24 and 25 December 1864, and 13 to 15 January 1865. Despite heavy return fire by the enemy and the explosion of the 100-pounder Parrott rifle which killed 8 men and wounded 12 more, Sgt. Binder, as captain of a gun, performed his duties with skill and courage during the first 2 days of battle. As his ship again took position on the 13th, he remained steadfast as the Ticonderoga maintained a well-placed fire upon the batteries on shore, and thereafter, as she materially lessened the power of guns on the mound which had been turned upon our assaulting columns. During this action the flag was planted on one of the strongest fortifications possessed by the rebels.

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