Service militaire
He was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 1834. His citation states: "Served on board the U.S.S. Signal, Red River, 5 May 1864. Proceeding up the Red River, the U.S.S. Signal engaged a large force of enemy field batteries and sharpshooters, returning their fire until the Federal ship was totally disabled, at which time the white flag was raised. Although on the sick list, Quarter Gunner Asten courageously carried out his duties during the entire engagement." He was accredited to: Illinois. G.O. No.: 45, 31 December 1864.
