James Thayer (Medal of Honor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Thayer
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|
|---|---|
| Born | 1853 Ireland |
| Died | April 16, 1886 (aged 32–33) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Place of burial |
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
|
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Navy |
| Rank | Ship's Corporal |
| Unit | USS Constitution |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
James Thayer (1853–1886) was a brave sailor in the United States Navy. He received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the U.S. military.
James was born in Ireland in 1853. He later moved to the United States. He joined the Navy from Pennsylvania.
A Heroic Rescue
By November 16, 1879, James Thayer was working as a ship's corporal. This job meant he helped keep order and discipline on the ship. He was serving on the famous ship, the USS Constitution.
On that day, the Constitution was at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Virginia. James Thayer saw a young shipmate in trouble. The boy was drowning. Without hesitation, James jumped in and saved the boy's life.
Medal of Honor
For his brave action, James Thayer was given the Medal of Honor. He received this special award five years later, on October 18, 1884.
His official Medal of Honor award said:
For rescuing from drowning a boy serving with him on the U.S.S. Constitution, at the Navy Yard, Norfolk, Va., 16 November 1879.
James Thayer passed away in 1886 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
See also
