Edward Sullivan (Medal of Honor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Corporal Edward Sullivan
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | May 16, 1870 Cork, Ireland |
| Died | March 11, 1955 (aged 84) Uxbridge, Massachusetts, US |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Marine Corps |
| Years of service | 1896–1901 |
| Rank | Corporal |
| Battles/wars | Cienfuegos, Cuba |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Corporal Edward Sullivan was a brave American Marine who received the Medal of Honor, America's highest award for military heroism. He was born in Cork, Ireland, on May 16, 1870. He later moved to the United States. He passed away on March 11, 1955, in Uxbridge, Massachusetts. Interestingly, Uxbridge has a long history of making uniforms for the U.S. military for over a century!
A Heroic Marine
Edward Sullivan joined the United States Marine Corps in 1896 from Massachusetts. He served as a corporal during the Spanish–American War in 1898. This war was fought between the United States and Spain.
Earning the Medal of Honor
Corporal Sullivan was awarded the Medal of Honor for his incredible bravery. This happened on May 11, 1898, during a mission in Cienfuegos, Cuba. The Medal of Honor is the highest military award given by the United States.
His award citation praised his actions:
"On board the USS Marblehead during the operation of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, May 11, 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Sullivan displayed extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action."
The Daring Cable-Cutting Mission
Edward Sullivan was one of 52 sailors and Marines recognized for their courage. They faced enemy fire while cutting important undersea cables. These cables connected the Spanish forces in Cienfuegos to the rest of the world. Cutting them would stop their communications.
The mission was very risky. Sailors from the USS Nashville (PG-7) and the USS Marblehead (C-11) joined a Marine guard. They moved in two boats very close to the enemy shore. They were just 15 feet away! Hidden enemies fired at them constantly.
For 80 minutes, the team worked to cut two cables. They used hacksaws to cut through them. When a cable was cut, the end facing the sea was taken back to the USS Marblehead. The ship then moved further from shore. This made it impossible for the enemy to repair the cables.
The enemy fire was very intense. Captain Maynard of the Nashville was even wounded during the action. Despite the danger, the brave team completed their mission.
Corporal Sullivan died on March 11, 1955, at the age of 84. He is buried in the Prospect Hill Cemetery in Uxbridge, Massachusetts.
See also
