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
Born1849
Malta
DiedNovember 11, 1912 (aged 62–63)
Place of burial
Palmetto Cemetery Brunswick, Georgia
AllegianceUnited States
Service/branchUnited States Navy
RankCaptain of the Top
UnitUSS Constitution
AwardsMedal 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.

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

References
  1. "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.
  2. "Constitution". Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships. Navy Department, Naval History and Heritage Command. Retrieved October 5, 2010.
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