bebb was born in ohio to edward (1800 - 1868) and margaret evans bebb (1805 - 1868) on april 28, 1839. he moved to iowa at age 12. bebb enlisted into company d of the 4th iowa cavalry on september 25, 1861 and was a private throughout his military career. on 16 april 1865 he formed part of a regiment, under the direction of general j. h. wilson's, that were undertaking to capture the chattahoochee river bridge to gain entry into the city. bebb is reported to have captured a flag while the enemies were fleeing. he was awarded the medal of honor for his valor at this event.