Background
Eilers was born August 11, 1870 in Newark, New Jersey and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1885.
Eilers was born August 11, 1870 in Newark, New Jersey and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1885.
After joining the Navy he was stationed aboard the United States Ship Philadelphia (C-4) as a gunner"s mate. On September 17, 1892 the United States Ship Philadelphia was participating in a mock attack on Fort McHenry, Baltimore, Maryland when a cartridge exploded prematurely. Although the ammunition could have ignited at any time due to the hot embers Eilers risked his life to remain at his post in the magazine until all of the burning particles had been stamped out.
In addition to the Medal of Honor Secretary of the Navy Benjamin F. Tracy issued General Order number 404 directing that Eilers be promoted to the rank of acting gunner for “extraordinary heroism”.
His date of rank as gunner was November 5, 1892. While serving aboard the Kentucky in the Philippines on June 30, 1901 Eilers died of heart disease.
His body was returned to the United States in September 1901 and buried a few days later in Cypress Hills Cemetery Brooklyn, New New York His grave can be found in section 6, lot 202B.
Hot embers blew down one of the ammunition chutes, nearly injuring three other members of the crew and causing others to run for their lives.