Who received the first Medal of Honor ever awarded?

The first Medal of Honor was awarded to Private Jacob Parrott for his bravery during the Great Locomotive Chase in 1863. This act of heroism took place during the American Civil War when Parrott and others undertook a mission to disrupt Confederate supply lines by stealing a train. His actions were recognized as exemplary of military courage and self-sacrifice, leading to the establishment of the Medal of Honor as a prestigious award for valor in the U.S. Armed Services. Parrott's receipt of the medal marked a significant moment in military history, establishing this award as a key form of recognition for acts of bravery. This context underlines the importance of the Medal of Honor and highlights why Private Jacob Parrott is a historically significant figure in American military history.