John Purnell Chatham

He served bravely amid enemy fire in the China relief force.

John Purnell Chatham was born on July 2, 1872, in Worcester County, Maryland. He served in the United States Navy as a gunner's mate second class aboard USS Newark.

His Medal of Honor recognized distinguished conduct during the Allied relief expedition in China. He distinguished himself in the presence of the enemy on June 13, 20, 21 and 22, 1900, while serving with the Allied relief force.

Chatham died on October 3, 1914, in Salisbury, Maryland, and is buried at Parsons Cemetery there. His Medal of Honor preserves the record of his service during the China Relief Expedition.

Official Medal of Honor citation:

In action with the relief expedition of the Allied forces in China, 13, 20, 21, and 22 June 1900. During this period and in the presence of the enemy, Chatham distinguished himself by his conduct.