Peter Cotton

Peter Cotton (June 17, 1839 – unknown) was an American sailor who fought in the American Civil War. Cotton received the Medal of Honor, the country's highest award for bravery during combat, for his action aboard the USS Baron DeKalb during the Yazoo Pass expedition between 23 and 27 December 1862. He was honored with the award on 3 April 1863.

Biography Cotton was born in New York City on June 17, 1839. He enlisted into the United States Navy during the American Civil War. Cotton was the coxswain aboard the (initially called the USS St. Louis), and saw action at the battles of Fort Henry and Fort Donelson in February 1862.

Medal of Honor Citation: