Cox received the country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action during the Battle of Vicksburg in Mississippi on May 22, 1863.

He enlisted into the 55th Illinois Infantry during the American Civil War.

He died on October 26, 1932, and his remains are interred at the Prairie City Cemetery in Illinois.

Bravely defended the colors planted on the outward parapet of Fort Hill.

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