This is a complete alphabetical list of Medal of Honor recipients during the American Civil War. This list only has the people with last names starting from A–F. Many of the medals received during the Civil War were for capturing or saving regimental flags. During the Civil War these regimental flags served as the rallying point for the unit. They also served as guids for the unit's movements. These flags were usually heavily protected. Loss of the flag could greatly disrupt a unit. It could also have a greater effect than the death of the commanding officer.