U.S. Civil War - U.S. Navy

John Lafferty

• Also Known As: Laverty, John
• Rank: Fireman (Highest Rank: First Class Fireman)
• Conflict/Era: U.S. Civil War
• Unit/Command:
  U.S.S. Wyalusing
• Military Service Branch: U.S. Navy
• Medal of Honor Action Date: May 25, 1864
• Medal of Honor Action Place: Roanoke River, North Carolina, USA

First Award Served on board the U.S.S. Wyalusing and participated in a plan to destroy the rebel ram Abemarle in Roanoke River, 25 May 1864. Volunteering for the hazardous mission, Lafferty participated in the transfer of two torpedoes across an island swamp and then served as sentry to keep guard of clothes and arms left by other members of the party. After being rejoined by others of the party who had been discovered before the plan could be completed, Lafferty succeeded in returning to the mother ship after spending 24 hours of discomfort in the rain and swamp.