James Ward

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Quarter Gunner James Ward, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving as gunner on board the U.S.S. Lackawanna during successful attacks against Fort Morgan, rebel gunboats and the ram Tennessee in Mobile Bay, Alabama, 5 August 1864. Although wounded and ordered below, Quarter Gunner Ward refused to go, but rendered aid at one of the guns when the crew was disabled. He subsequently remained in the chains, heaving the lead, until nearly caught in the collision with the ram Tennessee. He continued to serve bravely throughout the action which resulted in the capture of the prize ram Tennessee and in the damaging and destruction of Fort Morgan.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 45 (December 31, 1864)

Action Date: August 5, 1864

Service: Navy

Rank: Quarter Gunner

Division: U.S.S. Lackawanna