Andrew J. Lorish
DATE OF BIRTH: November 8, 1832
PLACE OF BIRTH: Dansville, New York
HOME OF RECORD: Attica, New York
AWARDS BY DATE OF ACTION: Medal of Honor
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING: Civil War
SERVICE: Army
DIVISION: 19th New York Cavalry (1st New York Dragoons)
GENERAL ORDERS:
Date of Issue: September 27, 1864
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Commissary Sergeant Andrew J. Lorish, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 19 September 1864, while serving with 19th New York Cavalry (1st New York Dragoons), in action at Winchester, Virginia. Amid the enemy Commissary Sergeant Lorish grabbed the flag from a Color Bearer who then called for help. When the bearer’s comrades were readying their rifles he dashed directly at them securing their disarming. As he rode away, the Confederates picked up their guns firing at the captor of their flag.
Account of Battle Action
Account taken from the Regimental History of the First New York Dragoons – Page 234 of the original text.
“Among the many incidents of personal daring in the great charge was the capture of three rebel battle flags by members of our regiment. I am, however, unable to
give the names and full circumstances of but two, Sergt. A.J. Lorish and Corp. Chester B. Bowen. Both charged not only into, but entirely through, the first rebel line, and far into the rebel ranks beyond; and both almost miraculously escaped unharmed, bringing off in triumph the rebel colors, which were being borne to the rear.
As Lorish seized the flag he was after, the rebels yelled, ” Shoot that d- d Yankee ! He’s got our flag!” Instantly a dozen guns were leveled at him ,accompanied by the demand,“ Surrender, you Yankee son of a gun.” Acting with quick decision, Lorish brandished his saber, dashed toward them, and shouted, “Ground your arms, or I’ll send every soul of you to hell in a minute !” Astounded at his audacity, they obeyed, when he spurred up his horse, and dashed for our lines amid a shower of bullets.”