Holton received his country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for actions taken on July 14, 1863 during the Battle of Williamsport.

Holton was born in Potter, New York but as a young man moved to Battle Creek, Michigan around 1860.

His brother, Samuel, had moved to Michigan earlier to establish his medical practice.

Holton earned a law degree and began practicing in Battle Creek before the onset of the Civil War.

[1] The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to First Sergeant Charles Myron Holton, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 14 July 1863, while serving with Company A, 7th Michigan Cavalry, in action at Falling Waters, Virginia, for capture of flag of 55th Virginia Infantry (Confederate States of America).