Thomas O'Connell (Medal of Honor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Thomas O'Connell
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|---|---|
| Born | 1842 Ireland |
| Died | 1899 (aged 56–57) |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Navy |
| Rank | Coal Heaver |
| Unit |  USS Hartford |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War • Battle of Mobile Bay |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Thomas O'Connell (1842 – 29 August 1899) was a brave sailor in the Union Navy during the American Civil War. He received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for military bravery in the U.S. He earned this award for his actions during the Battle of Mobile Bay.
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Who Was Thomas O'Connell?
Thomas O'Connell was born in Ireland in 1842. He later moved to the United States and lived in New York. When the Civil War began, he joined the United States Navy.
During the war, Thomas O'Connell worked as a coal heaver on the USS Hartford. This ship was the main ship of Admiral David Farragut, a famous naval leader. A coal heaver's job was to shovel coal into the ship's furnaces. This kept the engines running and the ship moving.
Bravery at Mobile Bay
On August 5, 1864, a big battle happened at Mobile Bay. Even though Thomas O'Connell was sick, he still went to his station. His job was to operate the shell whip. This was a special device used to lift heavy ammunition up to the ship's gun deck.
While he was doing his duty, an enemy cannonball hit his station. Thomas O'Connell lost his right hand in the explosion. Despite his serious injury, he had shown incredible courage.
Earning the Medal of Honor
For his bravery at Mobile Bay, Thomas O'Connell was given the Medal of Honor. He received this important award just a few months later, on December 31, 1864.
The Medal of Honor is given to members of the U.S. military. It recognizes those who show extreme bravery and risk their lives in battle.
Thomas O'Connell's Legacy
Thomas O'Connell passed away on August 24, 1899, when he was 56 or 57 years old. His Medal of Honor is now kept at the National Museum of the United States Navy. This museum is in Washington, D.C., and it helps people remember the brave actions of sailors like Thomas O'Connell.
