The Capture at Natchitoches

Born in the capital of New Hampshire, Russell C. Elliot moved south to Boston, where he eventually joined the Union effort during the Civil War. By the spring of 1864, he was serving as a Sergeant with the 3rd Massachusetts Cavalry during the Red River Campaign in Louisiana.

On April 19, 1864, near Natchitoches, Elliot observed a Confederate officer positioned well ahead of the enemy lines. Without waiting for orders or assistance, Elliot spurred his horse forward alone. He charged the officer single-handedly, successfully capturing him before the Confederate command could intervene. For this act of individual bravery and initiative, he was later awarded the Medal of Honor.