George Washington Thompson

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Private George Washington Thompson, United States Army, for gallantry in action on 15 May 1870, while serving with Company C, 2d U.S. Cavalry, in action at Little Blue, Nebraska.

General Orders: Date of Issue: June 22, 1870

Action Date: May 15, 1870

Service: Army

Rank: Private

Company: Company C

Division: 2d U.S. Cavalry

On May 16, 1872, nearly two years to the day of the battle at Little Blue, Thompson attempted to desert from the regiment but was apprehended the next day. He made a second successful attempt two months later on July 2 and thereafter disappeared from public record.