Michael Aheam

Career

Aheam was illegally recruited in Queenstown, Ireland in November 1863 along with several others, and officially enlisted in the United States Navy from France. He served as a Paymaster"s Steward aboard United States Ship Kearsarge during her battle with the commerce raider Computer Software Systems Alabama on June 19, 1864 off Cherbourg, France.

Achievements

His (dated December 31, 1864) noted that he had been "highly recommended" by his divisional officer after "carrying out his duties courageously" and exhibiting "gallantry under enemy fire" with "marked coolness and good conduct". He was one of seventeen Kearsarge sailors who received the medal for valor during this battle.

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Born

December 31, 1864

County Cork, Munster, Ireland

Awards

Medal of Honor Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor citation Rank and organization: Paymaster's Steward, U.S. Navy. Enlisted in: France. G.O. No.: 45, December 31, 1864. Citation: Served on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, June 19, 1864. Carrying out his duties courageously, PmS. Aheam exhibited marked coolness and good conduct and was highly recommended by his divisional officer for gallantry under enemy fire.

Medal of Honor citation Rank and organization: Paymaster's Steward, U.S. Navy. Enlisted in: France. G.O. No.: 45, December 31, 1864. Citation: Served on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, June 19, 1864. Carrying out his duties courageously, PmS. Aheam exhibited marked coolness and good conduct and was highly recommended by his divisional officer for gallantry under enemy fire.

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Michael Aheam

Career

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Born

Awards

Medal of Honor Medal of Honor