Private Marshall Sherman was a house painter but joined the First Minnesota at the start of the Civil War. Sherman played a significant part in the Battle of Gettysburg when he captured the flag of the 28th Virginia Infantry during Pickett's Charge. For his bravery, Sherman was the first Minnesotan to be awarded the Medal of Honor. The flag, which resides in the Minnesota Historical Society collections, generated some controversy in the late 20th century when descendants of the 28th Virginia soldiers asked to have the flag returned.