 She led the attack on the batteries at Grand Gulf on April 29 and was heavily damaged during the five-and-a-half-hour engagement.One of "Pittsburgh"s sailors, Boatswain's Mate John Woon, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his part in the battle.The action at Grand Gulf secured Union control of an important stretch of the river, making it possible for Grant to cross the river and attack Vicksburg from the rear.