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On April 24, 1862, the Union Navy launched an effort to capture New Orleans to close the important Southern port. New Orleans was protected by Forts Jackson and Philip in commanding positions above the river entrance and mounting a combined total of 128 guns. Additionally, the Confederate fleet numbered fourteen vessels to prevent the Union Navy from taking New Orleans. Twenty sailors from eight Union ships earned Medals of Honor in this action. On the first day of the two-day campaign, eight members of the crew of the U.S.S. Varuna earned Medals of Honor for their heroism in action. Coxswain William McKnight served as captain of a gun on board the U.S.S. Varuna during the attack on Forts Jackson and St. Philip. During this action at extremely close range while his ship was under furious fire and was twice rammed by the rebel ship Morgan, Coxswain McKnight remained steadfast at his gun and was instrumental in inflicting damage on the enemy until the Varuna, badly damaged and forced to beach, was finally sunk. |
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