James Martin II

James Martin II was a native of Ireland who immigrated to the United States and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the mid-19th century. He served with the Union forces during the American Civil War, rising through the ranks from private to sergeant, and was eventually appointed as a quartermaster sergeant.

On 5 August 1864, while serving aboard the USS Richmond during the Battle of Mobile Bay, Alabama, Martin displayed conspicuous bravery. For two hours, under heavy enemy fire, he helped operate one of the ship's guns. His actions contributed to damaging the Confederate ironclad CSS Tennessee and destroying Confederate artillery batteries at Fort Morgan, despite his ship sustaining heavy damage and casualties.

In recognition of his gallantry during this intense naval engagement, Martin was presented with the Medal of Honor. His dedicated service and bravery under fire remain a notable part of the U.S. Marine Corps' legacy during the Civil War.