Joseph Matthews (c. 1849 - November 11, 1912) was a sailor in the United States Navy who received the Medal of Honor for bravery.
Joseph Matthews | |
|---|---|
| Born | c. 1849 Malta |
| Died | November 11, 1912 (aged 62–63) |
| Place of burial | Palmetto Cemetery Brunswick, Georgia |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ | United States Navy |
| Rank | Captain of the Top |
| Unit | USS Constitution |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Biography edit
Matthews was born in about 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.
Medal of Honor citation edit
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 edit
References edit
- ^ a b "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.
External links edit
- "Joseph Matthews". Hall of Valor. Military Times. Retrieved October 5, 2010.