Buckingham received the country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action at Rowanty Creek in Virginia on 5 February 1865.

On 5 February 1865 he, along with S. Rodmond Smith, swam across the Rowanty Creek, which was partially frozen, in order to capture a crossing.

Securing the crossing ensures control over travel routes and can be vital in battles.

[1] He died on 23 November 1915 and his remains are interred at the Arlington National Cemetery.

Swam the partly frozen creek, under fire, in the attempt to capture a crossing.