Samuel Woods

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Seaman Samuel Woods, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving as Captain of the gun, serving temporarily on board the U.S.S. Mount Washington, during the Nansemond River (Virginia) action, 14 April 1863. When one of his comrades was struck by a bullet and knocked overboard, Seaman Woods fearlessly jumped into the water and swam after him. Before he reached him, the man sank beneath the surface and Woods promptly swam back to the vessel, went to his gun, and fought it to the close of the action. At the close of the battle, he tirelessly cared for the wounded.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 17 (July 10, 1863)

Action Date: April 14, 1863

Service: Navy

Rank: Seaman

Division: U.S.S. Mount Washington