Background
Matthews was born 1849 in Malta.
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Joseph Matthews
Edit ProfileCareer
After immigrating to the United States, he joined the navy. He was stationed aboard the United States Ship Constitution as captain of the top when, on February 13, 1879, he risked his life to cut the fastenings of the ship"s rudder chains in a heavy gale. He died November 11, 1912 and is buried in Palmetto Cemetery, Brunswick, Georgia.
Achievements
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Born
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Died
November 11, 1912 (aged 63)
Awards
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Medal of Honor Medal of Honor
Medal of Honor citation Rank and organization: Captain of the Top, U.S. Navy. Born: 1849, Malta. Accredited to: Pennsylvania. G.O. No.: 326, 18 October 1884. Citation: For courageous conduct in going over the stern of the U.S.S. Constitution at sea, 13 February 1879, during a heavy gale, and cutting the fastenings of the ship's rudder chains.Medal of Honor citation Rank and organization: Captain of the Top, U.S. Navy. Born: 1849, Malta. Accredited to: Pennsylvania. G.O. No.: 326, 18 October 1884. Citation: For courageous conduct in going over the stern of the U.S.S. Constitution at sea, 13 February 1879, during a heavy gale, and cutting the fastenings of the ship's rudder chains.