Benjamin Levy, a Jewish American, served as a drummer boy and color sergeant in the Union Army during the Civil War, demonstrating bravery and quick thinking in battle, and was later awarded the Medal of Honor for saving the colors during a battle.Â
An American Jew named Benjamin Levy fought in the Union Army during the American Civil War, and his story is covered in the article. Despite accusations that he had an “unpatriotic disinclination to stand behind the flag as a soldier,” Levy served as a drummer boy and subsequently as a color sergeant, receiving praise for his bravery and fast thinking. When the Battle of the Wilderness broke out, he was wounded in battle and later given the Medal of Honor for preserving the flag. Levy, who was the first Jewish American to get the Medal of Honor, passed away in 1921 and is buried in Brooklyn. A historical marker honoring him may be seen close to Richmond.Â
Source: https://www.historynet.com/first-jewish-medal-of-honor-recipient/Â
