No verified public-domain photo is on file yet.

Civil War

John F. Bickford

Captain of the Top · U.S. Navy

U.S. Navy

19 June 1864 · Alabama off Cherbourg, France

Branch
U.S. Navy
Era
Civil War
Home state
Maine
Action
Alabama off Cherbourg, France

The citation

Official citation

Served on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864. Acting as the first loader of the pivot gun during this bitter engagement Bickford exhibited marked coolness and good conduct and was highly recommended for his gallantry under fire by his divisional officer.

Sources

More from this battle

Ready I Left My Home — Staff Sgt. Anisha Johnson

Audio credits