James Meredith Helm
Rear Admiral James Meredith Helm (December 16, 1855 – October 28, 1927) was an American military officer in the United States Navy during the Spanish–American War.
James Meredith Helm | |
|---|---|
| Born | December 16, 1855 Grayville, Illinois |
| Died | October 28, 1927 (aged 71) |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |  United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1875–1919 |
| Rank | Rear Admiral |
| Commands held | USS Hornet USS Idaho USS Wabash |
| Battles/wars | Spanish–American War World War I |
| Awards | Navy Cross |
Early life and education
Born at Grayville, Illinois, Helm graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1875.
Career
He served in various ships and abroad until the Spanish–American War, when he commanded the gunboat Hornet. In the blockade of Cuba, he captured a Spanish steamer and three contraband schooners, and was advanced five numbers in grade for outstanding performance at the Battle of Manzanillo on 30 June 1898. Helm subsequently commanded the Idaho and Wabash.
During World War I, Helm was Commandant of the 4th Naval District and received the Navy Cross for his achievements.
The destroyer USS Helm (DD-388) was named for him.
Personal life
He retired December 16, 1919 and died October 28, 1927.
References
- This article incorporates text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships. The entry can be found here.