William Pelham (Medal of Honor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William R. Pelham
|
|
|---|---|
.jpg)
Landsman William Pelham
|
|
| Born | December 24, 1845 or December 8, 1847 Parish of Tuosist, Kenmare, County Kerry, Ireland |
| Died | March 30, 1933 (aged 85) Brooklyn, New York, US |
| Buried |
Holy Cross Cemetery, Brooklyn
|
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/ |
United States Navy |
| Rank | Landsman |
| Unit | USS Hartford |
| Battles/wars | |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
William R. Pelham (born December 24, 1845, or December 8, 1847 – died March 30, 1933) 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 bravery in the United States military. He earned this special award for his actions in a very important battle called the Battle of Mobile Bay.
Contents
William R. Pelham: A Civil War Hero
William Pelham was born in Ireland. He later moved to the United States. When the American Civil War began, he decided to join the United States Navy. He became a sailor for the Union, which was the northern side in the war.
Pelham joined the Navy from New York City. He served as a Landsman. A Landsman was a sailor who was just starting out. It was a rank for new recruits learning the ropes.
He was assigned to the USS Hartford. This ship was very important. It was the main ship, or flagship, of Rear Admiral David Farragut. Admiral Farragut was a famous naval leader during the Civil War.
The Battle of Mobile Bay
On August 5, 1864, the USS Hartford took part in the Battle of Mobile Bay. This battle happened in Mobile Bay, Alabama. It was a very tough fight between the Union Navy and the Confederate forces.
During the battle, William Pelham showed great courage. His actions helped the Union Navy in this important victory. The battle was a key moment in the Civil War.
Earning the Medal of Honor
Five months after the Battle of Mobile Bay, William Pelham received a special award. On December 31, 1864, he was given the Medal of Honor. This medal is the highest award for bravery a person can receive in the U.S. military. It is given to those who show extreme courage in battle.
Pelham earned his medal for his brave actions during the fight at Mobile Bay. His bravery helped the Union win a crucial battle.
Later Life
William Pelham lived a long life after the war. He passed away on March 30, 1933. He was either 85 or 87 years old. He was buried in Holy Cross Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York. His legacy as a brave Civil War sailor lives on.
