The First Medal of Honor

The Great Locomotive Chase in 1863 ended with the presentation of the first Medal of Honor, our nation’s highest military award. History enthusiast and retired Army Colonel John House relives the story of this incredible journey leading to 6 men receiving the Medal of Honor. In 1863, 2 civilian spies and 22 Union soldiers conducted a daring raid 200 miles behind Confederate lines in Georgia. These raiders stole a train and raced north, trying to destroy the rail lines, but their raid failed, with Confederates capturing the raiders and recovering the stolen train. As some were killed and others escaped, 6 raiders were held captive for almost a year until they were exchanged for Confederate prisoners of war. These 6 eventually received the first Medals of Honor, leading to a tradition still celebrated today. This program is FREE but pre-registration is required. Call 770-461-0813 or email register@fayss.org (include name, phone number and event title) to register. FSS members and non-members welcome. www.Fayss.org.