On July 18th, 1863 the 54th Massachusetts Regiment would conduct their assault on the Confederate-held Fort Wagner. Although a small battle in the civil war, this Second Battle of Fort Wagner held greater significance as the 54th Massachusetts Regiment was comprised mainly of African American soldiers, many of whom were former slaves, like William Harvey Carney. William Harvey Carney would go on to distinguish himself in battle and ultimately be awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the battle.