Corporal August Kauss (or Kautz) (November 6, 1843 ā April 27, 1913) was an American soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Kauss received his country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor. Kauss's medal was won for capturing a flag at the Battle of Five Forks in Virginia on April 1, 1865. He was honored with the award on May 10, 1865.