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U.S. Navy · United States United States

Samuel Woods

1838 – 1893
Medal of Honor - Navy
Life Service Medal of Honor Decorations Shadow Box In Our Keeping

Samuel Woods served the U.S. Navy. Samuel was 55 years old.

Service Record
U.S. Navy
Medal of Honor
Medal of Honor
14 April 1863 · USS Mount Washington, Nansemond River · Seaman, U.S. Navy.

As captain of the gun, serving temporarily on board the U.S.S. Mount Washington, during the Nansemond River action, 14 April 1863. When one of his comrades was struck by a bullet and knocked overboard, Woods fearlessly jumped into the water and swam after him. Before he reached him, the man sank beneath the surface and Woods promptly swam back to the vessel, went to his gun, and fought it to the close of the action. At the close of the battle, he tirelessly cared for the wounded.

17, 10 July 1863.
Awards & Decorations 1

For valor

Medal of Honor - Navy April 14, 1863 · USS Mount Washington, Nansemond River · Seaman, U.S. Navy. 17, 10 July 1863.
As captain of the gun, serving temporarily on board the U.S.S. Mount Washington, during the Nansemond River action, 14 April 1863. When one of his comrades was struck by a bullet and knocked overboard, Woods fearlessly jumped into the water and swam after him. Before he reached him, the man sank beneath the surface and Woods promptly swam back to the vessel, went to his gun, and fought it to the close of the action. At the close of the battle, he tirelessly cared for the wounded.
In Our Keeping
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Record added September 19, 2026 neuraweb.nw
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Last updated September 20, 2026

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Samuel Woods
U.S. Navy
Medal of Honor - Navy

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