William Halford facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Halford
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Coxswain William Halford, circa 1870
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| Born | August 18, 1841 Gloucestershire, England |
| Died | February 7, 1919 (aged 77) Oakland, California |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1869 – 1903 1917 – 1919 |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | USS Saginaw USS Benicia |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
William Halford (born August 18, 1841 – died February 7, 1919) was a brave sailor and later an officer in the United States Navy. He is famous for receiving the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award for bravery in the U.S. military.
Contents
William Halford's Life Story
William Halford was born in Gloucestershire, England. He joined the United States Navy in 1869. His story shows great courage and dedication to his country.
A Dangerous Rescue Mission
In 1870, Halford was serving on a ship called the USS Saginaw. On October 29, 1870, the ship got stuck near Kure Atoll, a small island far out in the Pacific Ocean. The crew needed help, but they were very far from land.
Halford was one of five brave people who volunteered for a very dangerous mission. They decided to sail the ship's small boat about 1,500 miles to Honolulu, Hawaii, to get help. The group included Halford, three other sailors, and the ship's officer, Lieutenant John G. Talbot.
Surviving the Ocean
Their journey was incredibly difficult. They faced many challenges and suffered a lot during their 31 days at sea. Finally, on December 19, 1870, they reached the island of Kauai in Hawaii.
However, landing on the island was also very dangerous because of the huge waves. As they tried to reach the shore, everyone in the boat except Halford drowned. William Halford, against all odds, managed to make it to the beach. He then quickly found help for his shipmates who were still stranded on the USS Saginaw.
For his amazing bravery and determination, William Halford was awarded the Medal of Honor.
After his heroic rescue, Halford continued his career in the Navy. He was promoted to a special rank called gunner on April 14, 1871. Later, on March 3, 1899, he became a chief gunner. He served in the Navy for 34 years.
Halford retired from active duty on August 18, 1903, when he turned 62 years old.
Serving During Wartime
When the First World War started, the United States Navy needed experienced officers. Even though William Halford was 77 years old, he was called back to serve. On July 1, 1918, he was promoted to lieutenant.
He was assigned to a Naval Training Station on Yerba Buena Island in California. He continued to serve his country until he passed away on February 7, 1919, in Oakland, California. William Halford was buried at the Mare Island Navy Yard cemetery in Vallejo, California.
Ships Named After Halford
- The ship USS Halford (DD-480) was named in honor of William Halford.
See also
- List of Medal of Honor recipients during Peacetime
