John W. Magee

Held his fireroom post while rising waters sank his warship.

John W. Magee was born in Maryland in 1859. He served in the United States Navy as a second class fireman aboard USS Tallapoosa.

On the night of August 21, 1884, near Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts, Tallapoosa sank. Magee remained at his duty station in the fireroom until the rising water extinguished the fires. His Medal of Honor recognized his conduct during the sinking.

The citation preserves the record of his steadfast service in a dangerous emergency at sea.

Official Medal of Honor citation:

Serving on board the U.S.S. Tallapoosa during the sinking of that vessel on the night of 21 August 1884. During this period, Magee remained at his post of duty in the fireroom until the fires were put out by the rising waters.