Hello.
I'm trying to research John Auton, Union soldier of IN, either 9th or 59th IN infantry. Our family is in possession of a medal and wonder if its real or not. It has an eagle with its wings spread open, and says "ENCAMPMENT SOUTH BEND MAY 1912", then a maroon hand stitched ribbon, which holds the bottom portion of the medal, which pictures a union soldier. It reads: "FIRST UNION SOLDIER FROM INDIANA KILLED 1861 JOHN AUTON". If you have any information on the validity of this medal, or John Auton, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
Christa