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List of Irish-American Medal of Honor recipients

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The following is a list of Irish-American soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who were awarded the American military's highest decoration — the Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor is bestowed "for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life, above and beyond the call of duty, in actual combat against an armed enemy force." The medal is awarded by the President of the United States on behalf of the Congress.

Of the 3,464 Medals of Honor awarded as of September 17, 2009,[1] an estimated 2,021 (58%) have been awarded to Irish-American recipients, more than twice the number awarded any other ethnic group;[2][3] 257 Irish-born Americans have received the Medal of Honor[4][5] which represents more than half of foreign-born MOH recipients.[6] A monument to these Irish-born Medal of Honor recipients is located at Valley Forge's Medal of Honor Grove;[7] erected by the Ancient Order of Hibernians.[8] The first Irish American to receive the Medal was Michael Madden, who received it for his actions in the American Civil War (Note that the earliest action for which the Medal of Honor was awarded was to Irish American U.S. Army Assistant Surgeon Bernard J.D. Irwin for the engagement at Apache Pass, February 1861. The award was made three decades after the event and after Madden's award).[9]

Medal of Honor

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The Medal of Honor was created during the American Civil War and is the highest military decoration presented by the United States government to a member of its armed forces. The recipient must have distinguished themselves at the risk of their own life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an enemy of the United States. Due to the nature of this medal, it is commonly presented posthumously.[10]

Civil War

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  This along with the *, indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Christopher C. Bruton Army Captain Company C, 22nd New York Cavalry Waynesboro, Virginia March 2, 1865 Awarded March 26, 1865. Citation: Capture of Gen. Early's headquarters flag. Confederate national standard.
James Allen Army Private South Mountain, Maryland September 14, 1862 Single-handed and slightly wounded he accosted a squad of 14 Confederate soldiers bearing the colors of the 16th Georgia Infantry (C.S.A.).
Robert Anderson Navy Quartermaster On board USS Crusader and USS Keokuk 1863 Served on board USS Crusader and USS Keokuk during various actions of those vessels.
Augustus Barry Army Sergeant Major Unknown 1863 – 1865 Gallantry in various actions during the rebellion.[11]
David L. Bass Navy Seaman Fort Fisher, North Carolina January 15, 1865 On board USS Minnesota in action during the assault on Fort Fisher, 15 January 1865.
William R. D. Blackwood Army Surgeon Petersburg, Virginia April 2, 1865 Removed severely wounded officers and soldiers from the field while under a heavy fire from the enemy, exposing himself beyond the call of duty, thus furnishing an example of most distinguished gallantry.
Profile of a balding white man with bushy, drooping mustache wearing an ornate military jacket with shoulder boards, shoulder cords, and a lanyard hanging from the chest. John Gregory Bourke Army Private Company E, 15th Pennsylvania Cavalry Murfreesboro, Tennessee December 31, 1862 – January 2, 1863 Gallantry in action.[12]
James Brady Army E-01Private Battle of Chaffin's Farm, Virginia Sep 29, 1864 Capture of flag[11]
Felix Brannigan Army E-01Private Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia May 2, 1863 Volunteered on a dangerous service and brought in valuable information.
John Brosnan Army Sergeant Company E, 164th New York Infantry Second Battle of Petersburg, Virginia Jun 17, 1864 Rescued a wounded comrade who lay exposed to the enemy's fire, receiving a severe wound in the effort.[11]
Denis Buckley Army E-01Private Battle of Peachtree Creek, Ga. Jul 20, 1864 Capture of flag of 31st Mississippi (C.S.A.).[11]
John C. Buckley Army Sergeant Battle of Vicksburg, Miss. May 22, 1863 Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."[11]
E. Michael Burk Army E-01Private Battle of Spotsylvania Court House, Virginia May 12, 1864 Capture of flag, seizing it as his regiment advanced over the enemy's works. He received a bullet wound in the chest while capturing flag.[11]
Thomas Burk Army Sergeant Battle of Wilderness May 6, 1864 At the risk of his own life went back while the rebels were still firing and, finding Col. Wheelock unable to move, alone and unaided, carried him off the field of battle.[11]
Daniel W. Burke Army First Sergeant Battle of Shepherdstown, Virginia Sep 20, 1862 Voluntarily attempted to spike a gun in the face of the enemy.[11]
John H. Callahan Army E-01Private Battle of Fort Blakeley, Ala. Apr 9, 1865 Capture of flag.
William Campbell Army Private Vicksburg, Mississippi May 22, 1863 Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
Hugh Carey Army Sergeant 82nd New York Infantry Battle of Gettysburg, Pa. Jul 2, 1863 Captured the flag of the 7th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.), being twice wounded in the effort.[13]
Patrick Colbert Navy Coxswain Aboard USS Commodore Hull October 31, 1864 Served on board USS Commodore Hull at the capture of Plymouth, 31 October 1864[11]
Charles H. T. Collis Army Colonel Petersburg, Virginia December 13, 1862 Gallantly led his regiment in battle at a critical moment.
Martin T. Conboy Army Second Lieutenant Williamsburg, Virginia May 5, 1862 Battle of Williamsburg Took command of the company in action, the captain having been wounded, the other commissioned officers being absent, and handled it with skill and bravery
Dennis Conlan Navy Seaman Aboard USS Agawam, First Battle of Fort Fisher December 23, 1864 Conlan served on board USS Agawam, as one of a volunteer crew of a powder boat which was exploded near Fort Fisher, 23 December 1864.[11]
Thomas Connor Navy Ordinary Seaman Fort Fisher, North Carolina January 15, 1865 On board USS Minnesota, in action during the assault on Fort Fisher, 15 January 1865.
James Connors Army Private Battle of Fisher's Hill, Virginia September 22, 1864 Capture of enemy flag.
John L. M. Cooper Navy Coxswain Mobile Bay, Alabama
Mobile, Alabama
August 5, 1864
April 26, 1865
Double MOH recipient
John Corcoran Army E-01Private Third Battle of Petersburg, Virginia Apr 2, 1865 Was one of a detachment of 20 picked artillerymen who voluntarily accompanied an infantry assaulting party, and who turned upon the enemy the guns captured in the assault.[14]
Head of a white man with a drooping mustache and short hair, wearing a dark suit over a light-colored shirt and tie. The portrait is surrounded by a shield-shaped decorative frame. Thomas E. Corcoran Navy Landman Vicksburg, Mississippi May 27, 1863 Served on board USS Cincinnati during the attack on the Vicksburg batteries and at the time of her sinking
John Creed Army Private Battle of Fisher's Hill, Virginia September 22, 1864 Capture of the enemy flag.
A white man with a mustache standing with his left arm resting on an object to his side and his right hand inside his jacket. A star-shaped medal is hanging from a ribbon on his left breast. Cornelius Cronin Navy Chief Quartermaster Aboard USS Richmond, Battle of Mobile Bay August 5, 1864 On board USS Richmond in action at Mobile Bay on 5 August 1864[11]
Richard J. Curran Army Assistant Surgeon Antietam, Maryland September 17, 1862 Voluntarily exposed himself to great danger by going to the fighting line there succoring the wounded and helpless and conducting them to the field hospital.
Michael Dougherty Army E-01Private Jefferson, Virginia Oct 12, 1863 At the head of a detachment of his company dashed across an open field, exposed to a deadly fire from the enemy, and succeeded in dislodging them from an unoccupied house, which he and his comrades defended for several hours against repeated attacks, thus preventing the enemy from flanking the position of the Union forces.
Patrick Dougherty Navy Landsman Aboard USS Lackawanna, Battle of Mobile Bay August 5, 1864 As a landsman on board USS Lackawanna, Dougherty acted gallantly without orders when the powder box at his gun was disabled under the heavy enemy fire, and maintained a supply of powder throughout the prolonged action. Dougherty also aided in the attacks on Fort Morgan and in the capture of the prize ram Tennessee.
Edmund English Army First Sergeant Wilderness, Virginia May 6, 1864 During a rout and while under orders to retreat seized the colors, rallied the men, and drove the enemy back.
Thomas T. Fallon Army E-01Private Williamsburg, Virginia May 1862 and Jun 1864 At Williamsburg, Virginia, assisted in driving rebel skirmishers to their main line. Participated in action, at Fair Oaks, Virginia, though excused from duty because of disability. In a charge with his company at Big Shanty, Georgia, was the first man on the enemy's works.[6]
Thomas Fitzpatrick Navy Coxswain Aboard USS Hartford, Battle of Mobile Bay August 5, 1864 As captain of the No. 1 gun on board the flagship USS Hartford, during action against rebel gunboats, the ram Tennessee and Fort Morgan in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
Augustin Flanagan Army Sergeant Battle of Chaffin's Farm, Virginia Sep 29, 1864 Gallantry in the charge on the enemy's works: rushing forward with the colors and calling upon the men to follow him; was severely wounded.
James Flannigan Army E-01Private Nolensville, Tenn. Feb 15, 1863 Was one of a detachment of 16 men who heroically defended a wagon train against the attack of 125 cavalry, repulsed the attack and saved the train.
Christopher Flynn Army E-04Corporal 14th Connecticut Infantry Battle of Gettysburg, Pa. Jul 3, 1863 Capture of flag of 52d North Carolina Infantry (C.S.A.).[13]
James E. Flynn Army Sergeant Battle of Vicksburg, Miss. May 22, 1863 Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
Head of a white man with a bushy mustache wearing a dark suit and bow tie. The portrait is surrounded by an oval-shaped frame decorated with stars and stripes. Michael C. Horgan Navy Landman Plymouth, North Carolina October 31, 1864 "[D]istinguished himself by a display of coolness when he participated in landing and spiking a 9-inch gun while under a devastating fire from enemy musketry."
Samuel B. Horne Army Captain Fort Harrison, Virginia September 29, 1864 While acting as an aide and carrying an important message, was severely wounded and his horse killed but delivered the order and rejoined his general.
Michael Hudson Marine Corps Sergeant Mobile Bay, Alabama August 5, 1864 On board USS Brooklyn during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864
Thomas R. Kerr Army Captain Moorefield, West Virginia August 7, 1864 After being most desperately wounded, he captured the colors of the 8th Virginia Cavalry (C.S.A.).
Edward M. Knox Army O-01Second Lieutenant Gettysburg, Pennsylvania Jul 2, 1863 Held his ground with the battery after the other batteries had fallen back until compelled to draw his piece off by hand; he was severely wounded.[15]
Bartlett Laffey Navy Seaman Yazoo City, Mississippi March 5, 1864 Served on board USS Marmora off Yazoo City, Mississippi, 5 March 1864. Landed ashore with his howitzer gun and crew in the midst of battle and contributed to the turning back of the enemy.
Hugh Logan Navy Captain of the Forecastle Mobile Bay, Alabama December 30, 1862 On board USS Rhode Island which was engaged in rescuing men from the stricken Monitor in Mobile Bay, on 30 December 1862.
John Lonergan Army Captain 13th Vermont Infantry Gettysburg, Pennsylvania July 2, 1863 Gallantry in the recapture of four guns and the capture of two additional guns from the enemy; also the capture of a number of prisoners.[13]
Michael Madden Army Private Mason's Island, Maryland September 3, 1861 Assisted a wounded comrade to the riverbank and, under heavy fire of the enemy, swam with him across a branch of the Potomac to the Union lines.
Richard C. Mangam Army Private Battle of Hatcher's Run, Virginia April 2, 1865 Capture of flag of 8th Mississippi Infantry (C.S.A.)
James Martin II Marine Corps Sergeant Mobile Bay, Alabama August 5, 1864 Despite damage to his ship and the loss of several men on board as enemy fire raked her decks, Sgt. Martin fought his gun with skill and courage throughout the furious two-hour battle which resulted in the surrender of the rebel ram Tennessee and in the damaging and destruction of batteries at Fort Morgan.
Peter McAdams Army E-04Corporal Salem Heights, Virginia May 3, 1863 Went 250 yards in front of his regiment toward the position of the enemy and under fire brought within the lines a wounded and unconscious comrade.[16]
Charles McAnally Army Second Lieutenant Spotsylvania County, Virginia May 12, 1864 In a hand-to-hand encounter with the enemy captured a flag, was wounded in the act, but continued on duty until he received a second wound.
Patrick H. McEnroe Army Sergeant Winchester, Virginia September 19, 1864 Capture of colors of 36th Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.).
Martin McHugh Navy Seaman Aboard USS Cincinnati, Operations against Vicksburg May 27, 1863 Serving on board USS Cincinnati during the attack on the Vicksburg batteries and at the time of her sinking, 27 May 1863.[17]
Framed portrait of a white man with a very long beard, neatly trimmed hair, and a dark jacket. Hugh Molloy Navy Ordinary Seaman Harrisonburg, Louisiana March 2, 1864 Served on board USS Fort Hindman during the engagement near Harrisonburg, Louisiana, 2 March 1864.
Patrick Monaghan Army E-04Corporal Second Battle of Petersburg, Virginia Jun 17, 1864 Recapture of colors of 7th New York Heavy Artillery.
John G. Morrison Navy Coxswain On board USS Carondelet July 15, 1862 Serving as coxswain on board USS Carondelet, Morrison was commended for meritorious conduct in general and especially for his heroic conduct and his inspiring example to the crew in the engagement with the rebel ram Arkansas, Yazoo River, 15 July 1862.
Portrait of a white man with wavy hair and a long, forked beard, wearing a suit. St. Clair A. Mulholland Army Major Chancellorsville, Virginia May 4–5, 1863 In command of the picket line held the enemy in check all night to cover the retreat of the Army.
Dennis Murphy Army Sergeant Corinth, Mississippi October 3, 1862 Although wounded three times, carried the colors throughout the conflict.
Michael C. Murphy Army Lieutenant Colonel Battle of North Anna, Virginia May 24, 1864 This officer, commanding the regiment, kept it on the field exposed to the fire of the enemy for three hours without being able to fire one shot in return because of the ammunition being exhausted.
Christopher Nugent Marine Corps Sergeant On board USS Fort Henry June 15, 1863 For his actions while serving on board USS Fort Henry, Crystal River, Florida, 15 June 1863.
James R. O'Beirne Army Captain Battle of Seven Pines, Virginia May 31-June 1, 1862 Gallantly maintained the line of battle until ordered to fall back.
Henry D. O'Brien Army E-04Corporal Battle of Gettysburg, Pa. Jul 3, 1863 Taking up the colors where they had fallen, he rushed ahead of his regiment, close to the muzzles of the enemy's guns, and engaged in the desperate struggle in which the enemy was defeated, and though severely wounded, he held the colors until wounded a second time.
Oliver O'Brien Navy Coxswain Aboard the USS John Adams November 28, 1864 Served as coxswain on board the U.S. Sloop John Adams, Sullvan's Island Channel, 28 November 1864. Taking part in the boarding of the blockade runner Beatrice while under heavy enemy fire from Fort Moultrie, O'Brien, who was in charge of one of the boarding launches, carried out his duties with prompt and energetic conduct. This action resulted in the firing of the Beatrice and the capture of a quantity of supplies from her.
Peter O'Brien Army E-01Private Battle of Waynesboro, Virginia Mar 2, 1865 Capture of flag and of a Confederate officer with his horse and equipment
Thomas O'Connell Navy Coal Heaver Aboard the USS Hartford, Battle of Mobile Bay Aug 5, 1864 On board the flagship USS Hartford, during successful attacks against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay on 5 August 1864.
Timothy O'Connor Army E-01Private Unknown Unknown Date and place of act not of record in War Department.
John O'Dea Army Private Vicksburg, Mississippi May 22, 1863 Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party"
Menomen O'Donnell Army O-02First Lieutenant Battle of Vicksburg, Mississippi and Fort DeRussey, La. May 22, 1863 and Mar 14, 1864 Voluntarily joined the color guard in the assault on the enemy's works when he saw indications of wavering and caused the colors of his regiment to be planted on the parapet. Voluntarily placed himself in the ranks of an assaulting column (being then on staff duty) and rode with it into the enemy's works, being the only mounted officer present, was twice wounded in battle.
Timothy O'Donoghue Navy Seaman Aboard USS Signal, Red River Campaign May 5, 1864 Served as boatswain's mate on board USS Signal, Red River, 5 May 1864.
Stephen O'Neill Army E-04Corporal Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia May 1, 1863 Took up the colors from the hands of the color bearer who had been shot down and bore them through the remainder of the battle.
George C. Platt Army Private Fairfield, Pennsylvania July 3, 1863 Seized the regimental flag upon the death of the standard bearer in a hand-to-hand fight and prevented it from falling into the hands of the enemy.
Thomas Plunkett Army Sergeant Fredericksburg, Virginia December 11, 1862 Seized the colors of his regiment, the color bearer having been shot down, and bore them to the front where both his arms were carried off by a shell.
Head and shoulders of a white man with a drooping mustache, wearing a cavalry hat and a double-breasted military jacket with two medals pinned to the left breast. James Quinlan Army Major Savage's Station, Virginia June 29, 1862 Led his regiment on the enemy's battery, silenced the guns, held the position against overwhelming numbers, and covered the retreat of the 2d Army Corps.
John Rannahan Marine Corps Corporal Fort Fisher, North Carolina January 15, 1865 On board USS Minnesota in the assault on Fort Fisher, 15 January 1865.
George Reynolds Army Private Winchester, Virginia September 19, 1864 Capture of Virginia State flag.
James S. Roantree Marine Corps Sergeant Mobile Bay, Alabama August 5, 1864 On board USS Oneida during action against rebel forts and gunboats and with the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, 5 August 1864.
Peter J. Ryan Army Private Winchester, Virginia September 19, 1864 With one companion, captured 14 Confederates in the severest part of the battle.
George Schutt Navy Coxswain St. Marks, Florida March 5–6, 1865
William J. Sewell Army Colonel Chancellorsville, Virginia May 3, 1863 For assuming command of the brigade, rallying the troops, and remaining in command though wounded.[6]
William Smith Navy Quartermaster On board USS Kearsarge January 15, 1865 Served as second quartermaster on board USS Kearsarge when she destroyed Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864.
James Sullivan Navy Ordinary Seaman Battle of Fort Fisher, North Carolina December 2, 1864 On board USS Agawam as one of a volunteer crew of a powder boat which was exploded near Fort Fisher, 2 December 1864.
John Sullivan Navy Seaman USS Monticello Jun 23, 1864 – Jun 25, 1864 Served as seaman on board USS Monticello during the reconnaissance of the harbor and water defenses of Wilmington, North Carolina 23 to 25 June 1864.
Timothy Sullivan Navy Coxswain USS Louisville Various Served on board USS Louisville during various actions of that vessel. During the engagements of Louisville, Sullivan served as first captain of a 9-inch gun and throughout his period of service was "especially commended for his attention to duty, bravery, and coolness in action."
John M. Tobin Army First Lieutenant Malvern Hill, Virginia July 1, 1862 Voluntarily took command of the 9th Massachusetts while adjutant, bravely fighting from 3 p.m. until dusk, rallying and re-forming the regiment under fire; twice picked up the regimental flag, the color bearer having been shot down, and placed it in worthy hands.
John Walsh Army Corporal Battle of Cedar Creek, Virginia October 19, 1864 Recaptured the flag of the 15th New Jersey Infantry.
Thomas M. Wells Army Chief Bugler Battle of Cedar Creek, Virginia October 19, 1864 Capture of colors of 44th Georgia Infantry (C.S.A.).
Edward Welsh Army Private Vicksburg, Mississippi May 22, 1863 Gallantry in the charge of the "volunteer storming party."
James Welsh Army E-01Private Battle of the Crater, Petersburg, Virginia Jul 30, 1864 Bore off the regimental colors after the color sergeant had been wounded and the color corporal bearing the colors killed thereby saving the colors from capture.[14]
Patrick H. White Army Captain Vicksburg, Mississippi May 22, 1863 Carried with others by hand a cannon up to and fired it through an embrasure of the enemy's works.

Indian Wars

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  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Richard Barrett Army First Sergeant Company A, 1st U.S. Cavalry Sycamore Canyon, Arizona May 23, 1872 Conspicuous gallantry in a charge upon the Tonto Apaches.
James J. Bell Army Private Big Horn, Montana July 9, 1876
Thomas Boyne Army Sergeant Company C, 9th U.S. Cavalry Mimbres Mountains, N. Mex. and Cuchillo Negro River near Ojo Caliente, New Mexico May 29, 1879 and Sep 27, 1879 Bravery in action.[11]
Edward Branagan Army Private Company F, 4th U.S. Cavalry Red River, Texas Sep 29, 1872 "Gallantry in action."
James Brogan Army Sergeant Company G, 6th U.S. Cavalry Simon Valley, Arizona Dec 14, 1877 Engaged singlehanded 2 renegade Indians until his horse was shot under him and then pursued them so long as he was able.
James Brophy Army Private Company B, 8th U.S. Cavalry Arizona 1868 Bravery in scouts and actions against Indians.
James Brown Army Sergeant Company F, 5th U.S. Cavalry Davidson Canyon near Camp Crittenden, Arizona Aug 27, 1872 In command of a detachment of 4 men defeated a superior force.[11]
Patrick J. Burke Army Farrier Company B, 8th U.S. Cavalry Arizona 1868 Bravery in scouts and actions against Indians.[11]
Richard Burke Army Private Company G, 5th U.S. Infantry Cedar Creek, etc., Montana Oct 1876 – Jan 1877 Gallantry in engagements.[11]
Edmond Butler Army Captain Company C, 5th U.S. Infantry Wolf Mountains, Montana January 8, 1877 Most distinguished gallantry in action with hostile Indians.[11]
Denis Byrne Army Sergeant Company G, 5th U.S. Infantry Cedar Creek, Montana October 1876 – January 1877 Gallantry in engagements.[11]
Thomas J. Callan Army Private Company B, 7th US Cavalry Little Bighorn, Montana June 25–26, 1876 Displayed conspicuously good conduct in assisting to drive away the Indians
Surname misspelled "Callen" on citation
John Connor Army Corporal Near Wichita River, Texas July 12, 1870
William Evans Army Private Big Horn, Montana July 9, 1876
Daniel Farren Army Private Arizona Territory August – October 1868
James Fegan Army Sergeant Near Plum Creek, Kansas March 1868
John H. Foley Army Sergeant Near Platte River, Nebraska April 26, 1872
Nicholas Foran Army Private Arizona Territory August – October 1868
Patrick Golden Army Sergeant Arizona Territory August – October 1868
Henry Hogan Army First Sergeant Cedar Creek, Montana
Bear Paw Mountains, Montana
October 1876 – January 8, 1877
September 30, 1877
Double MOH recipient
Bernard J. D. Irwin Army Assistant Surgeon Apache Pass, Arizona February 13–14, 1861
John Keenan Army Private Arizona Territory August – October 1868
Patrick J. Leonard Army Sergeant Little Blue, Nebraska May 15, 1870
Patrick T. Leonard Army Corporal Near Fort Hartsuff, Nebraska April 26, 1876
John McHugh Army Private Company A, 5th U.S. Infantry Cedar Creek, etc., Montana Oct 21, 1876 – Jan 8, 1877 "Gallantry in action"
William McNamara Army First Sergeant Red River, Texas Sep 29, 1872 Company F, 4th US Cavalry "Gallantry in action."
John Nihill Army Private Whetstone Mountains, Arizona July 13, 1872
Richard J. Nolan Army Farrier White Clay Creek, South Dakota December 30, 1890
Moses Orr Army Private Winter of 1872/1873
John F. O'Sullivan Army Private Staked Plains, Texas December 8, 1874
William R. Parnell Army First Lieutenant White Bird Canyon, Idaho June 17, 1877
Patrick Rogan Army Sergeant Big Hole, Montana August 9, 1877
Edward Rooney Army Private Company D, 5th US Infantry Cedar Creek, etc., Montana Oct 21, 1876 – Jan 8, 1877 "Gallantry in action."[11]
David Ryan Army Private Company G, 5th US Infantry Cedar Creek, etc., Montana Oct 21, 1876 – Jan 8, 1877 "Gallantry in action."
Dennis Ryan Army First Sergeant Company I, 6th US Cavalry Gageby Creek, Indian Territory Dec 2, 1874 Courage while in command of a detachment.
Thomas Sullivan Army Private Company E, 7th US Cavalry Wounded Knee Creek, South Dakota Dec 29, 1890 Conspicuous bravery in action against Indians concealed in a ravine.[6]
Bernard Taylor Army Sergeant Company A, 5th US Cavalry Near Sunset Pass, Arizona Nov 1, 1874 Bravery in rescuing Lt. King, 5th U.S. Cavalry, from Indians.
John Tracy Army Private Chiricahua Mountains, Arizona October 20, 1869 Born as Henry G. Nabers

Korean Expedition

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  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
John Coleman Marine Corps Private On board USS Colorado June 11, 1871
James Dougherty Marine Corps Private Korea June 11, 1871
Patrick H. Grace Navy Chief Quartermaster On board USS Benicia June 10, 1871June 11, 1871
Michael McNamara Marine Corps Private On board USS Benicia June 11, 1871

Spanish–American War

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  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Head and torso of a young black man wearing a suit and tie with a watch chain hanging from a jacket button. He has a cap pushed high up on his forehead and tilted over his left ear. Dennis Bell Army Private Battle of Tayacoba, Cuba Jun 30, 1898 Voluntarily went ashore in the face of the enemy and aided in the rescue of his wounded comrades; this after several previous attempts at rescue had been frustrated.[11]
George F. Brady Navy Chief Gunner's Mate Cardenas, Cuba May 11, 1898
Thomas Cavanaugh Navy Fireman First Class Bahamas November 14, 1898
Thomas C. Cooney Navy Chief Machinist Cardenas, Cuba May 11, 1898
Thomas M. Doherty Army Corporal Santiago de Cuba July 1, 1898
John Fitzgerald Marine Corps Private Cuzco, Cuba June 14, 1898
Philip Gaughan Marine Corps Sergeant Cienfuegos, Cuba May 11, 1898
Michael Gibbons Navy Oiler Cienfuegos, Cuba May 11, 1898
Michael Kearney Marine Corps Private Cienfuegos, Cuba May 11, 1898
Thomas Kelly Army Private Santiago de Cuba July 1, 1898
John Maxwell Navy Fireman Second Class Cienfuegos, Cuba May 11, 1898
Daniel Montague Navy Chief Master-at-arms Santiago de Cuba June 2, 1898
John E. Murphy Navy Coxswain Santiago de Cuba June 2, 1898
Edward Sullivan Marine Corps Corporal Cienfuegos, Cuba May 11, 1898

Philippine-American War

[edit]

  This with the * indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Bernard A. Byrne Army Captain 6th U.S. Infantry Bobong, Negros July 19, 1899 Rallied his men on the bridge after the line had been broken and pushed back.[11]
Cornelius J. Leahy* Army Private Company A, 36th Infantry, U.S. Volunteers Luzon, Philippines September 3, 1899 "Distinguished gallantry in action in driving off a superior force and with the assistance of 1 comrade brought from the field of action the bodies of 2 comrades, 1 killed and the other severely wounded, this while on a scout."
Thomas F. Prendergast Marine Corps Corporal Luzon, Philippines March 25, 1899March 29, 1899 and April 5, 1899 "For distinguished conduct in the presence of the enemy in battle"
Patrick Shanahan Navy Chief Boatswain's Mate Philippines May 28, 1899

Boxer Rebellion

[edit]

  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
James Cooney Marine Corps Private Tientsin, China July 13, 1900
Daniel Daly Marine Corps Private 15th Company of Marines Peking, China July 19, 1901 Double MOH recipient
Head of a white man with brown hair and a drooping mustache wearing a blue military jacket. The man is looking off to the side. Alexander J. Foley Marine Corps Sergeant near Tianjin, China Jul 13, 1900 "[For] distinguishing himself by meritorious conduct"
Martin Hunt Marine Corps Private Beijing, China June 20, 1900July 16, 1900
Joseph Killackey Navy Landman China June 13, 1900June 22, 1900
Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Daniel Daly Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant 15th Company of Marines near Fort Liberte, Haiti October 24, 1916 Double MOH recipient

World War I

[edit]

  This with the * indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Three-quarters shot of a middle-aged man in a plain military uniform, standing almost at attention. He is wearing a campaign hat and two medals on his chest. Michael A. Donaldson Army E-05Sergeant Sommerance-Landres-et-Saint-Georges Road, France Oct 14, 1918 Rescued six wounded men despite intense fire
Head and shoulders of an older man with neatly combed and parted gray hair wearing a suit and tie. William J. Donovan Army O-05Lieutenant Colonel near Landres-et-Saint-Georges, France Oct 14, 1918 – Oct 15, 1918 Exposed himself to fire in order to lead and organize his men, remained with them after being wounded[18]
Richard W. O'Neill Army E-05Sergeant on the Ourcq River, France Jul 30, 1918 Continued to lead an attack despite being repeatedly wounded[18]
Michael J. Perkins* Army E-02Private First Class Belleu Bois, France Oct 27, 1918 Singly-handedly attacked and captured a pillbox[19]
Head and shoulders of a middle-aged man, with receding hairline, in a dark turtleneck sweater. Joseph H. Thompson Army Major Apremont, France October 1, 1918

World War II

[edit]

  This with the * indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Frank Burke Army First Lieutenant Nuremberg, Germany April 17, 1945 Also known as Francis X. Burke.[6]
Head and shoulders of a man in a white jacket with black shoulderboards with binoculars hanging from around his neck. His eyes are shaded by a white peaked cap with a black visor. Daniel J. Callaghan* Navy Rear Admiral Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, Savo Island November 12, 1942 – November 13, 1942 [20]
Robert Craig* Army Second Lieutenant near Favoratta, Sicily July 11, 1943 [21]
Michael J. Daly Army First Lieutenant Nuremberg, Germany April 18, 1945
Charles E. Kelly Army Corporal near Altavilla, Italy September 13, 1943 [22]
black and white headshot of Joseph McCarthy in his military uniform Joseph J. McCarthy Marine Corps Reserve O-03Captain 04-24-022nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division Iwo Jima February 21, 1945 Risked his life to eliminate several enemy troops so his men could move forward
Thomas B. McGuire, Jr.* Army Air Forces Major over Luzon, Philippine Islands December 25, 1944 – December 26, 1944 The second leading air ace in World War II before being killed in action in January 1945. McGuire Air Force Base is named for him.[6]
Audie L. Murphy Army Second Lieutenant near Holtzwihr, France January 26, 1945 Highest number of decorations for US combatant.
William J. O'Brien* Army Lieutenant Colonel Saipan, Marianas Islands June 20, 1944 – July 7, 1944
Joseph T. O'Callahan Navy Commander near Kobe, Japan March 19, 1945 Chaplain aboard aircraft carrier USS Franklin.
Edward H. O'Hare Navy Lieutenant off Papua New Guinea February 20, 1942 O'Hare International Airport in Chicago was named in his memory.
Richard H. O'Kane Navy Commander Charles Shea (see the Wikipedia entry in his name Philippine Islands October 23, 1944 – October 24, 1944 For submarine operations against two Japanese convoys.[23]
Kenneth A. Walsh Marine Corps First Lieutenant Solomon Islands area August 15, 1943 and August 30, 1943

Korean War

[edit]

  This with the * indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Thomas J. Hudner, Jr. Navy O-02Lieutenant, Junior Grade Fighter Squadron 32, attached to USS Leyte Battle of Chosin Reservoir, Korea December 4, 1950 Risked his life to rescue a downed pilot
Raymond G. Murphy USMCR O-01Second Lieutenant Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.) Korea February 3, 1953 Although wounded he refused medical care to fight the enemy until all his men and casualties had been taken care of.
George H. O'Brien, Jr. USMCR O-01Second Lieutenant Company H, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.) Korea October 27, 1952 Provided cover and care for wounded while his unit was attacking the enemy

Vietnam War

[edit]

  This with the * indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Head and shoulders of a white man with dark hair wearing a military jacket with a round patch on the upper sleeve, and oak leaf emblem atop the shoulder, and ribbon bars and pins on the left breast. Patrick H. Brady Army Major Chu Lai—South Vietnamnear Chu Lai, Republic of Vietnam January 6, 1968 Flew multiple missions against heavy fire to evacuate 51 wounded men[24]
Head and shoulders of a white man with short hair, wearing a military jacket with a star-shaped medal hanging from a ribbon around his neck. Roger H. C. Donlon Army Captain Nam Dong—South Vietnamnear Nam Dong, Republic of Vietnam July 6, 1964 Rescued and administered first aid to several wounded soldiers and led a group to defeat an enemy force causing them to retreat leaving behind 54 of their dead, many weapons, and grenades.
Kern W. Dunagan Army Captain Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam May 13, 1969 Although wounded he directed fire onto enemy positions and rescued several wounded soldiers
Portrait of a middle-aged white man in a formal military uniform in front of a U.S. flag Robert F. Foley Army Captain Quan Dau Tieng—South Vietnamnear Quan Dau Tieng, Republic of Vietnam November 5, 1966 Despite his painful wounds he refused medical aid and persevered in the forefront of the attack on the enemy redoubt. He led the assault on several enemy gun emplacements and, single-handedly, destroyed three such positions.
Thomas G. Kelley Navy Lieutenant Ong Muong Canal, Kien Hoa Province, Republic of Vietnam June 15, 1969 Successfully relayed commands through one of his men until an enemy attack was silenced and the boats he was leading were able to move to safety
James McCloughan Army Private First Class United States Army Battle of Nui Yon Hill, Vietnam 1969 He suffered wounds from shrapnel and small arms fire on three separate occasions, but refused medical evacuation to stay with his unit, and continued to brave enemy fire to rescue, treat, and defend wounded Americans, coming to the aid of his men and fighting the enemy, at one point knocking out an enemy RPG position with a grenade. In all, the Pentagon credits McCloughan with saving the lives of 10 members of his company.[25]
A black and white headshot of a young McMahon wearing a suit and tie. He is turned slightly to the right with his head down and he is smiling. Thomas J. McMahon* Army Specialist Four Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam March 19, 1969 While attempting to rescue three wounded soldiers despite heavy enemy fire, he was able to carry two of the men to safety but was killed while trying to rescue the third.
a colored image of an elderly McNerney in a business suit wearing his Medal of Honor around his neck. He is facing to the left. David H. McNerney Army First Sergeant Polei Doc, Republic of Vietnam March 22, 1967 Despite being wounded after his unit was attacked, he assumed command of the unit when the company commander was killed, organized the defense, and helped arrange a helicopter evacuation of the wounded. He refused his own medical evacuation and instead stayed with the company until a new commander arrived.
A black and white headshot photo of Noonan in his military dress blue uniform with hat. Thomas P. Noonan, Jr.* Marine Corps Lance Corporal Vandegrift Combat Base—A Shau Valley—South Vietnamnear Vandergrift Combat Base, A Shau Valley, Republic of Vietnam February 5, 1969 Killed while attempting to rescue a wounded man
Head and shoulders of a white man with a pointed mustache, wearing a star-shaped medal on a blue ribbon around his neck. Robert E. O'Malley Marine Corps Corporal Company I, 3rd Battalion 3rd Marines An Cu'ong—South Vietnamnear An Cu'ong 2, South Vietnam August 18, 1965 Risked his life and led his men to repeatedly attack the enemy, assist another Marine unit that had inflicted heavy casualties and led his unit to a helicopter for evacuation.
A black and white head shot of Shea in his military dress uniform with hat. Daniel J. Shea* Army Private First Class Quảng Trị Province, Republic of Vietnam May 14, 1969 Killed by enemy gunfire after assisting in the defeat of an attacking enemy force
A black and white image showing the head and upper torso of Sijan wearing his military dress uniform with ribbons. Lance P. Sijan* Air Force Captain North Vietnam November 9, 1967 For actions while as a prisoner of war
A color image showing Thornton from the waist up in a business suit. He is wearing his Medal of Honor around his neck, with his left hand over his heart. Michael E. Thornton Navy Engineman Second Class Quảng Trị Province, Republic of Vietnam October 31, 1972 Saved the life of his superior officer and allowed the other members of his patrol to escape

War in Afghanistan

[edit]

  This with the * indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously
  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Top half of young man in circa 2000 dress U.S. Navy uniform of junior officer. Michael P. Murphy* Navy Lieutenant SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team 1 Near Asadabad, Kunar Province June 28, 2005 Led a four-man reconnaissance team in a fight against superior numbers, exposed himself to hostile fire in order to call for help

War in Iraq

[edit]

  This with the * indicates that the Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
Head and shoulders of a smiling young man in circa 2000 U.S. Army uniform with beret, before a large American flag. Ross A. McGinnis* Army Specialist Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd "Dagger" Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division Baghdad, Iraq June 28, 2005 McGinnis threw himself on enemy grenade to save his team.
Soldier in action in circa 2000 U.S. camouflage battle dress, carrying a combat rifle and wearing sunglasses and helmet. Behind him in the dusty air is a similarly equipped soldier. Michael A. Monsoor* Navy Master at Arms Second Class SEAL, Delta Platoon, SEAL Team 3 Ramadi, Iraq June 28, 2005 Monsoor threw himself on enemy grenade to save his team.

Peacetime

[edit]

  This indicates that the recipient was born in Ireland

Image Name Service Rank Unit Place of action Date of action Notes
William Ahern Navy Watertender On board USS Puritan July 1, 1897
Thomas Cahey Navy Seaman On board USS Petrel March 31, 1901
John J. Clausey Navy Chief Gunner's Mate USS Bennington, San Diego, California Jul 21, 1905 For extraordinary heroism when boiler exploded on ship.[11]
John Costello Navy Ordinary Seaman USS Hartford, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Jul 16, 1876 For rescuing from drowning a landsman of USS Hartford[11]
Thomas Cramen Navy Boatswain's Mate On board USS Portsmouth February 7, 1882
Frank W. Crilley Navy Chief Gunner's Mate wreck site of USS F-4, off Honolulu, Hawaii Apr 17, 1915 For rescuing a fellow diver who had become tangled in the wreckage and trapped underwater[6][11]
Willie Cronan Navy Boatswain's Mate USS Bennington, San Diego, California Jul 21, 1905 Bravery shown during ship's boiler explosion[11]
John Dempsey Navy Seaman Shanghai, China January 23, 1875
John Flannagan Navy Boatswain's Mate Le Havre, France October 26, 1878
Edward Floyd Navy Boilermaker On board USS Iowa January 25, 1905
Hugh King Navy Ordinary Seaman On board USS Iroquois September 7, 1871
John King Navy Watertender On board USS Vicksburg
On board USS Salem
May 29, 1901
September 13, 1909
Double MOH recipient
Head of a white man wearing a dark suit and bow tie. To the lower right of the oval-shaped portrait is an illustration of a shield covered with stars and stripes, like the American flag, and a ribbon tied around the shield. Patrick J. Kyle Navy Landman Port Mahon, Menorca March 13, 1879
John O'Neal Navy Boatswain's Mate Greytown, Nicaragua April 12, 1872
Patrick Regan Navy Ordinary Seaman Coquimbo, Chile July 30, 1873
Patrick Reid Navy Chief Watertender On board USS North Dakota September 8, 1910
Thomas Smith Navy Seaman Pará, Brazil October 1, 1878
Thomas Stanton Navy Chief Machinist's Mate On board USS North Dakota September 8, 1910
James Thayer Navy Ship's Corporal On board USS Constitution November 16, 1879
Michael Thornton Navy Seaman On board USS Leyden August 26, 1881

See also

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References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Frequently Asked Questions". Medal of Honor. United States Navy. Archived from the original on June 5, 2012. Retrieved September 9, 2009.
  2. ^ "America's Irish honor St. Patrick". The Miami News. Associated Press. March 17, 1987. Retrieved October 10, 2012.
  3. ^ Riehecky, Janet. Cultures of America: Irish Americans. New York: Marshall Cavendish, 1995. (p. 68) ISBN 1854357832
  4. ^ United States Congress. Immigration reform: Hearing before the Subcommittee on Immigration and Refugee Affairs of the Committee on the Judiciary, United States Senate, One Hundred First Congress, first session, on S. 358 ... and S. 448 ... March 3, 1989. Washington, DC: US Government Print Office, 1990. (p. 131)
  5. ^ O'Hanlon, Ray. The New Irish Americans. Niwot, Colorado: Roberts Rinehart Publishers, 1998. (p. 77) ISBN 1570982120
  6. ^ a b c d e f g Fox, Thomas. Hidden History of the Irish of New Jersey. Charleston, South Carolina: The History Press, 2011. (pp. 110–116) ISBN 1609490304
  7. ^ Barnes, John A. Irish-American Landmarks: A Traveler's Guide. 9th ed. New York: Gale Research, 1995. (p. 167) ISBN 0810396033
  8. ^ "Medal of Honor Grove". www.freedomsfoundation.org. Retrieved 2017-08-02.
  9. ^ "First Medal of Honor action – Feb 13, 1861". History.com. Retrieved 2017-08-02.
  10. ^ "A Brief History — The Medal of Honor". Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). Department of Defense. August 8, 2006. Archived from the original on May 19, 2009. Retrieved February 9, 2010.
  11. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x Hurley, Doran. "Medal of Honor Men of Irish Birth or Irish Ancestry in United States Army and Navy". The Journal of the American-Irish Historical Society. Vol. XXXII. New York: The Society, 1941. (pp. 57–73)
  12. ^ Limon, Jose E. Dancing With The Devil: Society And Cultural Poetics In Mexican-American South Texas. Madison: University of Wisconsin Press, 1994. (p. 26) ISBN 0299142248
  13. ^ a b c Hanna, Charles. Gettysburg Medal of Honor Recipients. Springville, Utah: Bonneville Books, 2010. (pp. 49–50, 87–89, 173–174) ISBN 1599553023
  14. ^ a b Molloy, Scott. Irish Titan, Irish Toilers: Joseph Banigan and Nineteenth-century New England Labor. Lebanon, New Hampshire: University of New Hampshire Press, 2008. (p. 75) ISBN 1584656905
  15. ^ Bayor, Ronald H. and Timothy Meagher, eds. The New York Irish. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, 1997. (pp. 186–187) ISBN 0801857643
  16. ^ Bruce, Susannah Ural. The Harp and the Eagle: Irish-American Volunteers and the Union Army, 1861–1865. New York: New York University Press, 2006. (p. 74) ISBN 081479940X
  17. ^ Moss, Tracy (April 20, 2012). "Civil War hero's grave unmarked no more". The News-Gazette. Retrieved October 10, 2012.
  18. ^ a b Willbanks, James H., ed. America's Heroes: Medal of Honor Recipients from the Civil War to Afghanistan. Santa Barbara, California: ABC-CLIO, 2011. (pp. 85, 249) ISBN 159884394X
  19. ^ H. O'Connor, Thomas. South Boston, My Home Town: The History of an Ethnic Neighborhood. Boston: Northeastern University Press, 1994. (p. 161) ISBN 1555531881
  20. ^ Garvey, John and Karen Hanning. Images of America: Irish San Francisco. Arcadia Publishing, 2008. (p. 66) ISBN 0738530492
  21. ^ "William Craig: Father Of War Hero Honored By Bridge". Toledo Blade. September 3, 1968. Retrieved October 10, 2012.
  22. ^ "Heroes Kelly, Childers Return; Bravery Recounted By Modest Infantryman". The Tuscaloosa News. Associated Press. April 24, 1944. Retrieved October 10, 2012.
  23. ^ Tuohy, William. The Bravest Man: Richard O'Kane and the Amazing Submarine Adventures of the USS Tang. New York: Presidio Press, 2006. (p. 125) ISBN 089141889X
  24. ^ Keane, John F. Images of America: Irish Seattle. Arcadia Publishing, 2007. (p. 81) ISBN 0738548782
  25. ^ "Michigan Vietnam vet is Trump's 1st Medal of Honor recipient". Associated Press. 13 June 2017.

Further reading

[edit]
  • Griffin, William D. The Book of Irish Americans. New York: Times Books, 1990. ISBN 0812912640
  • O'Donnell, Edward T. 1001 Things Everyone Should Know About Irish-American History. New York: Broadway Books, 2002. ISBN 0767906861
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