John G. Morrison facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John G. Morrison
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Medal of Honor recipient
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| Born | 13 July 1838 Ireland |
| Died | 9 June 1897 (aged 58) New York City, US |
| Place of burial |
Cypress Hills Cemetery, Brooklyn New York
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| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
United States Navy Union Navy Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861-1865 |
| Rank | Coxswain |
| Unit |  USS Carondelet |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
John Gordon Morrison (born July 13, 1838 – died June 9, 1897) was a brave American soldier and sailor. He fought in the American Civil War. In 1862, he received the highest award for bravery, the Medal of Honor.
A Brave Soldier's Story
John G. Morrison was born in Ireland. He moved to the United States in 1855. When the American Civil War began, he joined the army.
On April 24, 1861, he enlisted in the 30th New York Infantry. Later, in February 1862, he volunteered to serve on a special kind of ship called a gunboat. This ship was the USS Carondelet.
He became a coxswain, which is a sailor who steers the ship. John Morrison showed amazing courage on July 15, 1862. His ship, the Carondelet, faced a powerful enemy ship. This enemy ship was a "ram" called the CSS Arkansas.
The Arkansas was an ironclad ship, meaning it was covered in metal. It was trying to break through a blockade of Union ships. John Morrison was an inspiring example to everyone on his ship. He helped his crew during this tough battle on the Yazoo River.
Even though the Carondelet could not stop the Arkansas, John Morrison's bravery was noticed. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions. This is the highest military award for bravery in the United States.
John Morrison left the Navy on March 31, 1863. But he wasn't done serving! In September 1864, he joined the 21st New York Cavalry Regiment as a private. He finished his service in May 1865.
His Later Years
John G. Morrison passed away in New York City on June 9, 1897.
He was buried in Cypress Hills Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York. You can find his grave in section 9, lot 359.
Ships Named After Him
To honor his bravery, a destroyer ship was named after him. In 1943, the USS Morrison (DD-560) was launched. This ship carried on his legacy of courage.
See also
