John Flannagan (Medal of Honor) facts for kids

John Flannagan was a brave sailor in the United States Navy. He was born in 1852. John Flannagan received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the United States military.

John Flannagan's Story

John Flannagan was born in Ireland in 1852. He later moved to the United States. He joined the Navy from New York.

By October 26, 1878, he was working as a boatswain's mate. This job meant he helped manage the ship's equipment and crew. He was serving on a ship called the USS Supply.

A Heroic Rescue

On that day, the ship was off the coast of Le Havre, France. A fellow sailor named David Walsh was in trouble. He was drowning in the water. John Flannagan acted quickly and bravely. He rescued David Walsh from the water.

Because of his amazing courage, John Flannagan was given the Medal of Honor. This special award is given to military members who show extreme bravery. His official award description noted his rescue of Seaman David Walsh. It happened off Le Havre, France, on October 26, 1878.

See also

• List of Medal of Honor recipients during peacetime