McFarland, John C. - The National Medal of Honor Museum

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U.S. Navy

McFarland, John C.

ConflictCivil War

Year of Action1864

Unit/CommandUSS Hartford

BirthplaceBoston, Massachusetts

Citation

Stationed at the wheel on board the flagship USS Hartford during successful action against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, on 5 August 1864. With his ship under terrific enemy shellfire, McFarland performed his duties with skill and courage and, when the Lackawanna ran into his ship and every man at the wheel was in danger of being crushed, remained steadfast at his station and continued to steer the ship.

Branch: U.S. Navy Conflict: Civil War Year of Action: 1864