Hello.

IIRC, the Confederacy authorized this honor in October 1862. A soldier who was “conspicuous for courage and good conduct on the field of battle” had their name noted. Their fellow compatriots of their regiment had a say in this matter by voting. Those honorably selected, like your ancestors, would have their names announced out loud during the next dress parade. Further, their names were published in at least one newspaper in each Confederate state. Afterwards, the name was filed in the office of Adjutant and Inspector General.

In other words, your “Gr gr grand pa and several gr. gr grand uncles” were gallant men who proved it on the battlefield.

Yr Obt Srvt
Gordon