Background
Taussig, Joseph Knefler was born on August 30, 1877 in of America parentage, Dresden, Germany. Son of Edward David and Ellen (Knefler) Taussig.
Taussig, Joseph Knefler was born on August 30, 1877 in of America parentage, Dresden, Germany. Son of Edward David and Ellen (Knefler) Taussig.
Graduate Western High School, Washington, District of Columbia, 1895. Bachelor of Science, United States Naval Academy, 1899. Graduated from Nava War College, 1920.
Commissioned ensign in the United States Navy, January 29, 1901. Promoted through grades to rear admiral, July 1, 1931. Assistant chief of naval operations, 1933-1936.
Commandant, 5th Naval District and Naval Operating Base, Norfolk, Virginia, 1938-1941. Retired as vice admiral September 1, 1941. Participated in Spanish-American War, Philippine Insurrection, Boxer Campaign, Cuban Pacification, World War I, Nicaraguan Campaign of 1927.
Recalled to active duty, June 1943. Office of Secretary of Navy, Navy Department, 1945. Chairman Hampton Roads Sanitation Commission.
Was awarded Distinguished Service Medal (United States). Sampson medal (Spanish-American War). Life Saving Medal of Honor.
Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (England). Order of Merit First Class (Chile). Naval Institute gold medal, 1939.
Advanced “for eminent and conspicuous conduct in battle,” Boxer Campaign, 1900.
Member: Order of the Carabao. Military Order of the Dragon. Clubs: Army and Navy (Washington, District of Columbia), New York Yacht, University (Philadelphia).
Married Lulie Augusta Johnston, October 18, 1911. Children: Emily Johnston (Mistress Henry Wadsworth Whitney), Margaret Stewart (Mistress George Philip), Joseph Knefler.