McWilliams, George Washington - The National Medal of Honor Museum

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U.S. Navy

McWilliams, George Washington

ConflictCivil War

Year of Action1865

Unit/CommandUSS Pontoosuc

BirthplaceWaterford, Pennsylvania

Citation

Served on board the USS Pontoosuc during the capture of Fort Fisher and Wilmington, 24 December 1864, to 22 February 1865. Carrying out his duties faithfully throughout this period, McWilliams was so severely wounded in the assault upon Fort Fisher that he was sent to the hospital at Portsmouth, Va. McWilliams was recommended for his gallantry, skill and coolness in action while under the fire of the enemy.

Branch: U.S. Navy Conflict: Civil War Year of Action: 1865