This Military Service Page was created/owned by
Gregg Baitinger, BM1
to remember
Thordsen, William George (MOH), CPO.
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Contact Info
Home Town Fredericstadt
Last Address New York, New York County (Manhattan)
Date of Passing May 08, 1932
Location of Interment Arlington National Cemetery (VLM) - Arlington, Virginia
On May 6, 1900, Coxswain Thordsen was in charge of a small assault boat from the U.S.S. Pampanga near Hilongas, Philippine Islands. When a enemy shore battery spotted the assault boat, Coxswain Thordsen skillfully navigated his crew and craft to safety under heavy enemy fire. For gallantry under the face of the enemy, he was awarded the Medal of Honor on August 15, 1900 and later achieved the rank of Chief Gunner's Mate.
Other Comments:
Rank and organization: Coxswain, U.S. Navy. Born: 2 April 1879, Fredericstadt, Germany. Accredited to: New York. G.O. No.: 6, 15 August 1900.
Medal of Honor Citation:
"For heroism and gallantry under fire of the enemy at Hilongas, Philippine Islands, 6 May 1900."