Thomas Lyons (Medal of Honor)

Thomas Lyons
Born	1838 Salem, Massachusetts
Died	August 29, 1904 (aged 65–66)
Allegiance	United States of America Union
Service/branch	Union Navy
Rank	Seaman
Unit	USS Pensacola
Battles/wars	American Civil War
Awards	Medal of Honor

Thomas Lyons (1838 – August 29, 1904) was a sailor in the United States Navy and a recipient of the U.S. military's highest decoration, the Medal of Honor, for his actions during the American Civil War.

Lyons was born sometime in 1838 in Salem, Massachusetts. On April 24, 1862 he was on board USS Pensacola during the attack on Fort Jackson and Fort St. Philip. Lashed outside of that vessel, on the port-sheet chain, with the lead in hand to lead the ship past the forts, Lyons never flinched, although under a heavy fire from the forts and Confederate gunboats. His actions earned the Medal of Honor.

Medal of Honor citation

Rank and Organization: Seaman, U.S. Navy. Born: 1838, Salem, Mass. Accredited To: Massachusetts. G.O. No.: 169, February 8, 1872

Citation:

Served as seaman on board the U.S.S. Pensacola in the attack on Forts Jackson and St. Philip, 24 April 1862. Carrying out his duties throughout the din and roar of the battle, Lyons never once erred in his brave performance. Lashed outside of that vessel, on the port-sheet chain, with the lead in hand to lead the ship past the forts, Lyons never flinched, although under a heavy fire from the forts and rebel gunboats.^[1]

See also

• List of American Civil War Medal of Honor recipients: G–L

References

1. "Civil War Medal of Honor recipients (A-L)". Medal of Honor citations. United States Army Center of Military History. August 6, 2009. Retrieved July 1, 2010.