Coxswain William P. Brownell (July 12, 1839 to April 26, 1915) was an American soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Brownell received the country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action aboard the USS Benton during the Battle of Grand Gulf on 2 May 1863 and the Siege of Vicksburg at New Bern on 22 May 1863. He was honored with the award on 16 April 1864.