William Parker

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Captain of the Afterguard William Parker, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving at the wheel on board the U.S.S. Cayuga during the capture of Forts St. Philip and Jackson, Louisiana, and New Orleans, 24 and 25 April 1862. As his ship led the advance column toward the barrier and both forts opened fire simultaneously, striking the vessel from stem to stern, Captain of the Afterguard Parker conscientiously performed his duties throughout the action in which attempts by three rebel steamers to butt and board were thwarted, and the ships driven off. Eleven gunboats were successfully engaged and the enemy garrisons forced to surrender during this battle in which the Cayuga sustained 46 hits.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 11 (April 3, 1863)

Action Date: April 24 - 25, 1862

Service: Navy

Rank: Captain of the Afterguard

Division: U.S.S. Cayuga