U.S. NAVY
A.K.A MICHAEL ASTEN
UNIT: U.S.S. Signal
DATE OF BIRTH: 14 SEP 1834
PLACE OF BIRTH: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
DATE OF DEATH: 14 SEP 1885
PLACE OF DEATH: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
BURIAL: Saint Francis Cemetery, Pawtcket, Providence County, Rhode Island
PLOT: Section 22, Lot 111
NOTEWORTHY FACTS: Awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his service during the U.S. Civil War at Red River Louisiana on 5 MAY 1864.
CITATION: 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.