William Smith

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Quartermaster William Smith, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action as Second Quartermaster on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864. Acting as Captain of the 11-inch pivot gun of the second division, Quartermaster Smith carried out his duties courageously and deserved special notice for the deliberate and cool manner in which he acted throughout the bitter engagement. It is stated by rebel officers that this gun was more destructive and did more damage than any other gun of Kearsarge.

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

Action Date: June 19, 1864

Service: Navy

Rank: Quartermaster

Division: U.S.S. Kearsarge