The Medal of Honor is the highest award for bravery that can be given to any individual in the United States.
In judging men for receipt of the medal, each service has established its own regulations. The deed must be proved by incontestable evidence of at least two eyewitnesses; it must be so outstanding that it clearly distinguishes the recipient's gallantry beyond the call of duty from lesser forms of bravery; it must involve the risk of his life; and it must be the type of deed which, if he had not done it, would not subject him to any justified criticism.
SERGEANT THOMAS WILBUR KATES
Born: 7 May 1861 or 1865 in Shelby Center, New York
Enlisted: 21 July 1899 in Brooklyn, New York