This medal was awarded to Michael Dougherty for Bravery in Battle. The reverse side lists three locations—Cedar Creek, Winchester, and Jefferson, Virginia—and their respective dates, acknowledging Dougherty's involvement in those battles. It also recognizes his 23 months spent in Southern prisons during the Civil War. The front side of the medal bears Dougherty's name and commemorates his service with Company B, 13th Pennsylvania Cavalry.
The medal was presented by Colonel M. Kerwin, who later became a Brigadier General in the Fenian Brotherhood, explaining the different titles used for him in related documents