John E. Murphy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Edward Murphy
|
|
|---|---|
.jpg)
Chief Boatswain John E. Murphy
|
|
| Born | May 3, 1869 Ireland |
| Died | April 9, 1941 (aged 71) |
| Place of burial |
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery
San Diego, California |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Navy |
| Years of service | to 1905 |
| Rank | Chief Boatswain |
| Unit | USS Iowa (BB-4) USS Merrimac (1894) USS Oregon (BB-3) USS Pensacola (1859) USS Constellation (1854) USS New York (ACR-2) USS Buffalo (1892) |
| Battles/wars | Spanish–American War *Sinking of the Merrimac |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
John Edward Murphy (born May 3, 1869 – died April 9, 1941) was a brave sailor in the United States Navy. He received the Medal of Honor, which is America's highest award for military bravery. He earned it for his actions during the Spanish–American War.
Contents
John Edward Murphy joined the U.S. Navy from New York. During the Spanish–American War, he served on a large warship called the USS Iowa (BB-4). On this ship, he worked as a coxswain. A coxswain is a sailor who steers a boat or helps manage the crew.
The Daring Mission of the Merrimac
Murphy was one of eight brave volunteers for a very risky mission. They were part of the crew of the USS Merrimac (1898), which was a type of ship called a collier. A collier is a ship that carries coal.
Rear Admiral William T. Sampson ordered the Merrimac to be sunk. The goal was to block the entrance to Santiago Harbor in Cuba. This would trap the Spanish fleet inside the harbor.
On the night of June 2-3, 1898, the crew tried to sink the Merrimac. However, during the mission, enemy gunfire hit the ship. The steering system was damaged, and the Merrimac sank. It did not block the harbor as planned.
Captured and Released
After the Merrimac sank, the Spanish forces rescued Murphy and his shipmates. They were then made prisoners-of-war. This meant they were held by the enemy.
About a month later, the Battle of Santiago de Cuba took place. In this battle, the Spanish fleet was destroyed. After this victory, Murphy and his fellow sailors were set free. For their incredible bravery during the Merrimac mission, all eight men received the Medal of Honor.
Promotions and Retirement
While he was still a prisoner, John Murphy received a promotion on June 15, 1898. He became a warrant officer with the rank of Boatswain. A boatswain is a senior sailor who supervises the crew and maintains the ship's equipment.
After his release, Murphy continued his service in the Navy. In October 1898, he was assigned to another battleship, the USS Oregon (BB-3). This ship soon sailed to the Asiatic Station, which was a naval base in Asia.
Later, he served on training duties aboard the USS Pensacola (1859) and the USS Constellation (1854). In the summer of 1903, he joined the USS New York (ACR-2), an armored cruiser, in the Pacific Squadron.
John Murphy was promoted again on June 15, 1904, becoming a Chief Boatswain. For his last assignment, he served on the USS Buffalo (1892), also in the Pacific. He officially retired from the Navy on August 1, 1905.
Final Resting Place
Chief Boatswain John Edward Murphy passed away at the age of 71. He was buried at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego, California. This cemetery is a special place where many brave service members are laid to rest. His grave can be found in the officer's section, grave 363.
See also
