Brown received the country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action during the Battle of Globe Tavern on 19 August 1864.

While in that battalion he was promoted to Sergeant and went on to earn the Medal of Honor for capturing the battle flag of the 47th Virginia Infantry during the Battle of Globe Tavern on 19 August 1864.

He was subsequently promoted to 1st Lieutenant and then captain in command of his company, having fought throughout the war.

The flag he captured is on display at the Museum of the Confederacy in Richmond, Virginia.

Capture of flag of 47th Virginia Infantry (Confederate States of America).