John Davis

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Quarter Gunner John Davis, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action on board the U.S.S. Valley City during action against rebel fort batteries and ships off Elizabeth City, North Carolina, on 10 February 1862. When a shell from the shore penetrated the side and passed through the magazine, exploding outside the screen on the berth deck, several powder division protecting bulkheads were torn to pieces and the forward part of the berth deck set on fire. Showing great presence of mind, Quarter Gunner Davis courageously covered a barrel of powder with his own body and prevented an explosion, while at the same time passing powder to provide the division on the upper deck while under fierce enemy fire.

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Gunner’s Mate Third Class John Davis, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action on board the U.S.S. Marblehead, during the operation of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Gunner’s Mate Third Class Davis set an example of extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Ordinary Seaman John Davis, United States Navy, for gallant and heroic conduct while serving on board the U.S.S. Trenton, Toulon, France, February 1881. Jumping overboard, Ordinary Seaman Davis rescued Augustus Ohlensen, Coxswain, from drowning.