Background
His father, William Ward Burrows I, was the second Commandant of the Marine Corps. Burrows was born in Philadelphia, and appointed a Midshipman in 1799.
His father, William Ward Burrows I, was the second Commandant of the Marine Corps. Burrows was born in Philadelphia, and appointed a Midshipman in 1799.
He distinguished himself at Tripoli onboard Constitution. Lieutenant Burrows died while in command of the brig United States Ship Enterprise as a result of wounds received during the engagement with the British brig HMS Boxer. He was buried at Eastern Cemetery in Portland, Maine next to the slain commander of Boxer, Samuel Blyth.
Three ships in the United States Navy have been named United States Ship Burrows for him.
That the President of the United States be requested to present to the nearest male relative of lieutenant William Burrows, and to lieutenant Edward R. McCall of the brig Enterprise, a gold medal with suitable emblems and devices. And a silver medal with like emblems and devices to each of the commissioned officers of the aforesaid vessel, in testimony of the high sense entertained in the conflict with the British sloop Boxer, on the fourth of September, in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirteen.
And the President is also requested to communicate to the nearest male relative of lieutenant Burrows the deep regret which Congress feel for the loss of that valuable officer, who died in the arms of victory, nobly contending for his country"s rights and fame.