Bernard Abert Byrne (October 19, 1853 – February 28, 1910) was a United States Army captain who received the Medal of Honor for actions during the Philippine–American War. He later achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Early career
Byrne was born in Newport Barracks, Kentucky, in 1853. His father was Dr. Bernard Miles Byrne, a U.S. Army surgeon. His mother was Louisa Matlack (Abert) Byrne, the daughter of Colonel John James Abert, the first chief of the U.S. Topographical Service.
Byrne joined the army in Washington, D.C. He was educated at Colombian University (later George Washington University). He married Bertha Barnitz, daughter of Albert Trorillo Siders Barnitz, an officer twice brevetted for bravery.
Byrne was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution.
He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Service history
Appointed from Washington D.C., second lieutenant, 6th United States Infantry – October 15, 1875 Appointed first lieutenant – December 31, 1882 Regimental adjutant November 1, 1886 to March 31, 1890 Appointed captain – November 9, 1894 Earned Medal of Honor – July 19, 1899 Appointed lieutenant colonel, 40th US Volunteer Infantry – August 17, 1899 Honorably mustered out of volunteer service – June 24, 1901 Appointed major, 13th United States Infantry – February 28, 1901 Medal of Honor awarded – July 15, 1902 Retired – July 13, 1906
Awards
Medal of Honor
Indian Campaign Medal
Spanish Campaign Medal
Army of Cuban Occupation Medal
Philippine Campaign Medal
Medal of Honor citation
Rank and Organization: Captain, 6th U.S. Infantry. Place and Date: At Bobong, Negros, Philippine Islands, July 19, 1899. Entered Service At: Washington, D.C. Birth: Newport Barracks, Va. Date of Issue: July 15, 1902.
Citation
Most distinguished gallantry in rallying his men on the bridge after the line had been broken and pushed back.