Established early in the Civil War to "promote efficiency in the Navy", the Medal of Honor rose to prominence in American history and heritage. Fewer than 3,500 Americans have been awarded Medals of Honor, and today only 81 of them survive. These heroes are a vanishing breed whose valiant history MUST be preserved for future generations. That heritage is nurtured and sustained on the ground floor of the Hall of Heroes.
The President of the United States
in the name of
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
Rank and organization: Private, U.S. Marine Corps. Born: 16 November 1839, Langhash, Ireland. Accredited to: Pennsylvania. G.O. No.: 169, 8 February 1872.
On board the U.S.S. Benicia in action at Korea on 11 June 1871, for seeking out and killing the commanding officer of the Corean forces.