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U.S. Navy · United States United States

John McGowan

1831
Medal of Honor - Navy

John McGowan served the U.S. Navy.

Service Record
U.S. Navy
Medal of Honor
Medal of Honor
24 April 1862 · USS Varuna, Forts Jackson and St. Philip · Quartermaster, U.S. Navy.

McGowan occupied one of the most responsible positions on the U.S.S. Varuna during the attacks on Forts Jackson and St. Philip and in action against the rebel ship Morgan on 24 April 1862. Although guns were raking the decks from behind him, McGowan remained steadfast at the wheel throughout the thickest of the fight, continuing at his station and rendering service with the greatest courage and skill until his ship, repeatedly holed and twice rammed by the enemy, was beached and sunk.

11, 3 April 1863.
Awards & Decorations 1

For valor

Medal of Honor - Navy April 24, 1862 · USS Varuna, Forts Jackson and St. Philip · Quartermaster, U.S. Navy. 11, 3 April 1863.
McGowan occupied one of the most responsible positions on the U.S.S. Varuna during the attacks on Forts Jackson and St. Philip and in action against the rebel ship Morgan on 24 April 1862. Although guns were raking the decks from behind him, McGowan remained steadfast at the wheel throughout the thickest of the fight, continuing at his station and rendering service with the greatest courage and skill until his ship, repeatedly holed and twice rammed by the enemy, was beached and sunk.
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Record added September 19, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated September 20, 2026

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John McGowan
U.S. Navy
Medal of Honor - Navy

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