Served as boatswain's mate on board the U.S.S. 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.