Emile Lejeune
Emile Lejeune (1853–1916)[1] was a United States Navy sailor and a recipient of the United States military's highest decoration, the Medal of Honor.
Emile Lejeune | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1853 France |
| Died | July 10, 1916 (aged 62–63) [1] |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ | United States Navy |
| Rank | Seaman |
| Unit | USS Plymouth |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
A native of France, Lejeune joined the U.S. Navy from New York.[2] By June 6, 1876, he was serving as a seaman on USS Plymouth commanded by Captain Edward Barrett. On that day, he and other crewmen took Plymouth's steam-powered launch to shore at Port Royal, South Carolina. While there, Lejeune rescued a civilian who had fallen off the Port Royal wharf. For this action, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, proposed by Edward Barrett three days later, on June 9.[3]
Lejeune's official Medal of Honor citation reads:
Serving on board the U.S.S. Plymouth, Lejeune displayed gallant conduct in rescuing a citizen from drowning at Port Royal, S.C., 6 June 1876.[2]
References
- Emile Lejeune at Find a Grave
- "Medal of Honor recipients - Interim Awards, 1871–1898". Medal of Honor citations. United States Army Center of Military History. August 5, 2010. Retrieved August 10, 2010.
- Robeson, George M.; Edward Barrett (June 9, 1876). "General Order, No. 212". General orders and circulars issued by the Navy Department. Washington, D.C.: United States Government Printing Office (1863–1887): 148–9. Retrieved August 10, 2010.
External links
- "Emile Lejeune". Hall of Valor. Military Times. Retrieved August 10, 2010.
- Don Morfe (April 22, 2010). "Emile Lejeune". Claim to Fame: Medal of Honor recipients. Find a Grave. Retrieved August 10, 2010.