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Boatswain's Mate, U.S. Navy
James Byrnes was an Irish-born sailor who immigrated to the United States and served in the United States Navy during the American Civil War. Serving as a Boatswain's Mate, he was stationed aboard the ironclad gunboat USS Louisville during major operations along the Western Rivers.
Byrnes distinguished himself during the Battle of Fort Hindman (also known as the Battle of Arkansas Post) in January 1863. For his conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty during this engagement, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration. He officially received the medal on April 3, 1863.
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