William Downey (Medal of Honor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Downey
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|---|---|
| Born | 1832 Ireland |
| Died | June 30, 1909 Massachusetts |
| Buried |
Saint Marys Cemetery, New Bedford, Massachusetts
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| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1863 - 1865 |
| Rank | Private |
| Unit |  4th Massachusetts Volunteer Cavalry Regiment - Company B |
| Awards |  Medal of Honor |
William Downey (1832 – June 30, 1909) was an Irish soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Downey received the United States' highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action at Ashepoo River, South Carolina on 24 May 1864. He was honored with the award on 21 January 1897.
Biography
Downey was born in Limerick, Ireland in 1832, and joined the US Army from Fall River, Massachusetts in September 1863. He was captured at the Battle of Gainesville, and paroled in April 1865. He was mustered out in June 1865.
Downey died on 30 June 1909 and his remains are interred at Saint Mary's Cemetery in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
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