The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center released the following statement after the White House announced today that the Medal of Honor will be awarded posthumously to U.S. Army Private Philip G. Shadrach and Private George D. Wilson for their acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving as members of the Andrews’ Raid – also known as the Great Locomotive Chase – on April 12, 1862.
David Currey, executive director for the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, released the following statement:
“It is with great honor and pride that the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center joins the families of Private Philip G.
Shadrach and Private George D. Wilson in celebrating the White House announcement that the Medal of Honor will be awarded to these two American heroes for their selfless heroic act of valor during the Andrews’ Raid on April 12, 1862.
"Today’s decision rectifies a historical oversight that has deprived Privates Shadrach and Wilson from receiving our nation's highest military honor for valor on the battlefield. The incredible story of Andrews Raid and the Great Locomotive Chase led to the awarding of the first Medals of Honor in our nation’s history. It also created the first of several undeniable historical connections between Chattanooga and the Medal of Honor that ultimately established Chattanooga as the Birthplace of the Medal of Honor.
"We thank everyone who helped make this day possible. We look forward to honoring Medal of Honor Recipients Shadrach and Wilson as part of our Great Locomotive Chase exhibit that tells the heroic acts of valor from that day and through our mission that shared the incredible stories of Medal of Honor Recipients to inspire the next generation about six character traits that embody the Medal of Honor: Patriotism, Citizenship, Courage, Integrity, Sacrifice and Commitment.
"In the coming weeks, the Heritage Center will make an announcement on how Chattanooga, Hamilton County and the surrounding communities can come together and help honor these two American heroes this year and all Medal of Honor recipients in 2025.”
The White House ceremony to present the Medal of Honor to the families of Private Philip G. Shadrach and Private George D. Wilson is scheduled for 4:45 p.m. on Wednesday. To learn more about Privates Shadrach and Wilson receiving the Medal of Honor or to watch the official White House ceremony streamed at www.MoHHC.org/Raiders.
The public can also learn more about the Andrews Raid and the Great Locomotive Chase by visiting the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, which is located in downtown Chattanooga at the Aquarium Plaza. For additional information on the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center, visit the www.MOHHC.org.