John Taylor

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Seaman John Taylor, United States Navy, for gallant and heroic conduct while serving as Seaman in charge of the picket boat attached to the Navy Yard, New York, 9 September 1865. Acting with promptness, coolness and good judgment, Seaman Taylor rescued from drowning Commander S. D. Trenchard, of the U.S. Navy, who fell overboard in attempting to get on a ferryboat, which had collided with an English steamer, and needed immediate assistance.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 71, January 15, 1866

Action Date: September 9, 1865

Service: Navy

Rank: Seaman

Company: Picket Boat