Thomas Burke

A rescue at sea can reveal a hero just as powerfully as any battlefield. On 10 May 1866, off Eastport, Maine, United States Navy seaman Thomas Burke risked his life alongside two shipmates to save two sailors from drowning. His extraordinary courage earned him the Medal of Honor, America's highest military decoration, and secured his place among the United States Navy's distinguished heroes.

Born in Ireland in 1833, Burke served in the United States Navy and was assigned to USS De Soto. During the rescue, he and his fellow sailors came to the aid of James Rose and John Russell, seamen aboard USS Winooski, who were in danger of drowning. Their courageous intervention demonstrated exceptional selflessness and devotion to fellow sailors. Burke shared this recognition with Seaman Richard Bates and John Brown, Captain of the Afterguard.

For his actions, Burke received the Medal of Honor under Navy Department General Order No. 77, dated 1 August 1866. His official citation reads: "For heroic conduct, with 2 comrades, in rescuing from drowning James Rose and John Russell, seamen, of the U.S.S. Winooski, off Eastport, Maine, 10 May 1866."

Accredited to New York for his award, Burke's life later took him away from the public attention that accompanied his extraordinary act of heroism. He died in Pensacola, Florida, on 27 October 1883, and is recorded as buried at St. Michael's Church Cemetery.

Thomas Burke's story is a reminder that heroism is not confined to the battlefield. His courage emerged in a moment when fellow sailors needed help, and his willingness to risk his own life to save theirs became a lasting example of the finest traditions of the United States Navy.