Soldier Massachusetts Infantry
He was honored with the award on May 10, 1865. Gardner joined the 18th Massachusetts Infantry in August 1862, and was transferred to the 32nd Massachusetts Infantry in October 1864. As a result of his Ministry of Health action, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, and mustered out with his regiment in June 1865.
Gardner received his country"s highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor. Gardner"s medal was won for capturing the flag at the Battle of Five Forks in Virginia on April 1, 1865. The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Private Charles N. Gardner, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 1 April 1865, while serving with Company East, 32d Massachusetts Infantry, in action at Five Forks, Virginia, for capture of flag.
