Serving as boatswain’s mate on board the USS Benton during the Yazoo River Expedition, 23 to 27 December 1863. Taking part in the hour-and-a-half engagement with the enemy at Drumgould’s Bluff, 27 December, Morton served courageously throughout the battle against the hostile forces, who had the dead range of the vessel and were punishing her with heavy fire, until the Benton was ordered to withdraw.