Michael Cassidy (sailor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Michael Cassidy
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Civil War era Navy Medal of Honor
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| Born | 1837 Ireland |
| Died | March 18, 1908 (aged 70–71) Hampton, Virginia |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Navy |
| Rank | Landsman |
| Unit | USS Lackawanna |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War • Battle of Mobile Bay |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Michael Cassidy was a brave sailor who fought for the Union during the American Civil War. He received the Medal of Honor, the highest award for military bravery in the U.S., for his amazing actions at the Battle of Mobile Bay.
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Michael Cassidy's Story
Michael was born in Ireland in 1837. When he was older, he moved to the United States and lived in New York. It was there that he decided to join the United States Navy.
During the Civil War, Michael served as a landsman. This was a rank for sailors who were just starting out. He was part of the crew on a ship called the USS Lackawanna.
Hero at Mobile Bay
On August 5, 1864, a very important battle happened. It was called the Battle of Mobile Bay. Michael Cassidy's ship, the Lackawanna, was right in the middle of the action.
The Lackawanna fought very closely with an enemy ship, the CSS Tennessee. During this intense fight, Michael Cassidy showed incredible courage. He was a "sponger" on a gun crew. This job meant he had to clean the cannon after each shot. It was a dangerous task, especially with enemy fire all around.
Michael stayed calm and did his job perfectly. His bravery was noticed by his officers and the rest of his gun crew. Because of his amazing actions, he was given the Medal of Honor a few months later, on December 31, 1864.
What is the Medal of Honor?
The Medal of Honor is the highest award for bravery in the United States Armed Forces. It is given to members of the military who show extreme courage and risk their lives during combat. Michael Cassidy's award citation said he showed "great coolness and exemplary behavior" while serving on the Lackawanna. His actions helped his ship succeed in capturing the enemy ram Tennessee.
Later Life and Legacy
Michael Cassidy lived to be about 70 or 71 years old. He passed away on March 18, 1908. He was buried at Hampton National Cemetery in Hampton, Virginia. His bravery during the Civil War is still remembered today.
