Joseph Matthews (Medal of Honor)
Joseph Matthews (1849 - November 11, 1912) was a sailor in the United States Navy who received the Medal of Honor for bravery.
Joseph Matthews | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1849 Malta |
| Died | November 11, 1912 (aged 62–63) |
| Place of burial | Palmetto Cemetery Brunswick, Georgia |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ | United States Navy |
| Rank | Captain of the Top |
| Unit | USS Constitution |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Biography
Matthews was born 1849 in Malta. After immigrating to the United States, he joined the navy. He was stationed aboard the USS Constitution as captain of the top when, on February 13, 1879, he risked his life to cut the fastenings of the ship's rudder chains in a heavy gale. For his actions, he received the Medal of Honor on October 18, 1884.[1][2]
He died on November 11, 1912 and he is buried in Palmetto Cemetery, Brunswick, Georgia.[3]
Medal of Honor citation
Rank and organization: Captain of the Top, U.S. Navy. Born: 1849, Malta. Accredited to: Pennsylvania. G.O. No.: 326, 18 October 1884.
Citation:
For courageous conduct in going over the stern of the U.S.S. Constitution at sea, 13 February 1879, during a heavy gale, and cutting the fastenings of the ship's rudder chains.[1]
See also
- List of Medal of Honor recipients during peacetime
References
- "Interim Awards, 1871-98; Matthews, Joseph entry". Medal of Honor recipients. United States Army Center of Military History. August 3, 2009. Retrieved October 5, 2010.
- "Constitution". Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships. Navy Department, Naval History and Heritage Command. Retrieved October 5, 2010.
- Don Morfe (April 25, 2010). "Joseph Matthews". Claim to Fame: Medal of Honor recipients. Find a Grave. Retrieved October 5, 2010.
External links
- "Joseph Matthews". Hall of Valor. Military Times. Retrieved October 5, 2010.