Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Stories of Sacrifice
Interim 1920 - 1940 - U.S. Navy
James Harper McDonald
Details
- Rank: Chief Metalsmith (Highest Rank: Lieutenant)
- Conflict/Era: Interim 1920 - 1940
- Military Service Branch: U.S. Navy
- Medal of Honor Action Date: May 23, 1939
- Medal of Honor Action Place: Portsmouth, southeast off the Isle of Shoals, New Hampshire, USA
Citation
For extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as a master diver throughout the rescue and salvage operations following the sinking of the U.S.S. Squalus on 23 May 1939. His leadership, masterly skill, general efficiency, and untiring devotion to duty in directing diving operations and in making important and difficult dives under the most hazardous conditions, characterize conduct far above and beyond the ordinary call of duty.
Additional Details
- Accredited to: Washington, District of Columbia
- Awarded Posthumously: No
- Presentation Date & Details: January 19, 1940
Washington, D.C., presented by Sec. of the Navy Charles Edison
- Born: July 15, 1900, near Newmaud, Scotland
- Died: December 29, 1973, Couldersport, PA, United States
- Buried: Fishing Creek Cemetery (MH), Roulette, PA, United States