Burke received the country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action during the Battle of Shepherdstown in Virginia on 20 September 1862.

[3] On 20 September 1862 Burke's unit had retreated across the Potomac during the Battle of Shepherdstown.

Upon learning that a piece of artillery remained unspiked and accessible to the enemy, Burke returned in order to spike the gun.

Although prevented from successfully completing this task due to heavy fire, Burke was awarded the Medal of Honor for this display of bravery.

Voluntarily attempted to spike a gun in the face of the enemy.