USS Valley City |
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Congressional Medal of Honor winner |
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DAVIS, JOHN |
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Rank and Organization: |
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Quarter Gunner, U.S. Navy |
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Born: Cedarville, N.J. |
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Accredited to: New Jersey. |
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G.O. No.: 11, 3 April 1863. |
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Citation: Served on board the U.S.S. Valley City during
action against rebel fort batteries and ships off Elizabeth City, N.C., on 10
February 1862. When a shell from the shore penetrated the side and passed
through the magazine, exploding outside the screen on the berth deck, several
powder-division protecting bulkheads were torn to pieces and the forward part
of the berth deck set on fire. Showing great presence of mind, Davis
courageously covered a barrel of powder with his own body and prevented an
explosion, while at the same time passing powder to provide the division on
the upper deck while under fierce enemy fire. |
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Commander Rowan’s Report: I would respectfully call your attention to one
incident of the engagement which
reflects much credit upon a quarter gunner of the Valley City, and for
which Congress has provided rewards in the shape of medals. A shot had passed
through her magazine and exploded in a locker beyond containing fireworks.
The commander, Lieutenant Commanding Chaplin, went there to aid in
suppressing the fire, where he found John Davis, quarter gunner, seated with
commendable coolness on an open barrel of powder as the only means to keep
the fire out. |
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