Michael C Asten

On episode three hundred and twenty-nine, the story of Michael C Asten is told. All stories in July and August will be recipients from the American Civil War Be sure to visit our website for more information as the show goes on at: www.talesofhonorpodcast.com. Thanks for listening and be sure to share with friends and family!

Michael was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on the 14th of September, 1834, and like many others during this time period, I am unable to find the date or circumstances that brought him to the United States. He did join the US Navy out of Chicago, serving under his middle name Charles, and it was his actions as a Quarter Gunner during the Red River Campaign that would earn him the Medal of Honor. The citation reads:

Served on board the U.S.S. Signal, Red River, 5 May 1864. Proceeding up the Red River, the U.S.S. Signal engaged a large force of enemy field batteries and sharpshooters, returning their fire until the Federal ship was totally disabled, at which time the white flag was raised. Although on the sick list, Q.G. Asten courageously carried out his duties during the entire engagement.

Michael and the crew of the USS Signal abandoned the ship once it was disabled and ended up being captured by Confederate troops once on land. They were brought to and held at Camp Ford Prisoner of War near Tyler, Texas, until they were exchanged. Michael received his Medal of Honor on the 31st of December, 1864, along with seven other members of the USS Signal. Michael Charles Asten died on his 51st birthday in 1885 and is buried in the Saint Francis Cemetery in Pawtucket, Rhode Island: Section 22, Lot 111.