United States of America
ES
U.S. Navy · United States 
Edwin Smith
1841 – 1875
Edwin Smith served the U.S. Navy. Edwin was 34 years old.
Service Record
U.S. Navy
Medal of Honor
3 October 1862 · USS Whitehead, Franklin, Va. · Ordinary Seaman, U.S. Navy.
On board the U.S.S. Whitehead in the attack upon Franklin, Va., 3 October 1862. When his ship became grounded in a narrow passage as she rounded a bend in the Blackwater River, Smith, realizing the hazards of lowering a boat voluntarily swam to shore with a line under the enemy's heavy fire. His fearless action enabled his ship to maintain steady fire and keep the enemy in check during the battle.
Awards & Decorations
1
For valor
Medal of Honor - Navy
On board the U.S.S. Whitehead in the attack upon Franklin, Va., 3 October 1862. When his ship became grounded in a narrow passage as she rounded a bend in the Blackwater River, Smith, realizing the hazards of lowering a boat voluntarily swam to shore with a line under the enemy's heavy fire. His fearless action enabled his ship to maintain steady fire and keep the enemy in check during the battle.
In Our Keeping
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Record added
September 19, 2026
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Last updated
September 20, 2026
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Edwin Smith
U.S. Navy
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