Career
Born in 1831 in Ireland, McGowan immigrated to the United States and was living in New York when he joined the United States. Navy. He served during the Civil War as a quartermaster on the United States Ship Varuna. At the Battle of Forts Jackson and Saint Philip near New Orleans on April 24, 1862, Varuna was rammed twice by the Confederate steamer Computer Software Systems Governor Moore (formerly known as the Charles Morgan) and eventually sunk.
McGowan was stationed at the ship"s wheel and showed "the greatest courage and skill" throughout the close-range fight.
McGowan"s official Medal of Honor citation reads:
McGowan occupied one of the most responsible positions on the United States.S. Varuna during the attacks on Forts Jackson and Saint Philip and in action against the rebel ship Morgan on 24 April 1862.
