DAVIS, JOHN
Rank and Organization: Quarter Gunner, U.S. Navy. Born: Cedarville, N.J. Accredited
To: New Jersey. G.O. No.: 11, 3 April 1863.
Citation:
Served on board the U.S.S. Valley City during action against rebel fort batteries and
ships off Elizabeth City, N.C., on 10 February 1862. When a shell from the shore
penetrated the side and passed through the magazine, exploding outside the screen on the
berth deck, several powder division protecting bulkheads were torn to pieces and the
forward part of the berth deck set on fire. Showing great presence of mind, Davis
courageously covered a barrel of powder with his own body and prevented an explosion,
while at the same time passing powder to provide the division on the upper deck while
under fierce enemy fire.
|
