The First Medal | On View Through March 31Read the story of how it all began.
U.S. Navy
Matthews, Joseph
Matthews, Joseph
Year of Action1879
Unit/CommandUSS Constitution
Citation

For courageous conduct in going over the stern of the USS Constitution at sea, 13 February 1879, during a heavy gale, and cutting the fastenings of the ship’s rudder chains.

Branch: U.S. NavyYear of Action: 1879

Explore Fellow Recipients

See the recipients that share the same branch of service or conflict as Joseph Matthews
Tripp, Othniel
Tripp, OthnielU.S. NavyConflict: Civil War
Rush, John
Rush, JohnU.S. NavyConflict: Civil War
Peck, Oscar E.
Peck, Oscar E.U.S. NavyConflict: Civil War
Clancy, Joseph
Clancy, JosephU.S. NavyConflict:
Flannagan, John
Flannagan, JohnU.S. NavyConflict:
Brown, William H
Brown, William HU.S. NavyConflict: Civil War
Seanor, James
Seanor, JamesU.S. NavyConflict: Civil War
Callaghan, Daniel Judson
Callaghan, Daniel JudsonU.S. NavyConflict: World War II
Wilke, Julius August Robert
Wilke, Julius August RobertU.S. NavyConflict:
Price, Edward
Price, EdwardU.S. NavyConflict: Civil War
Van Valkenburgh, Franklin
Van Valkenburgh, FranklinU.S. NavyConflict: World War II
Smith, William
Smith, WilliamU.S. NavyConflict: Civil War
View all Recipients
The Medal

A Medal Steeped in History

Uncover the inspiring legacy, symbolism, and selection criteria of the Medal of Honor.

EXPLORE THE MEDAL
A Medal Steeped in History
Exhibits

THE RING OF VALOR

Step into the heart of the Museum and surround yourself with stories of courage and sacrifice.

VIEW EXHIBIT DETAILS
THE RING OF VALOR
BUY TICKETSBECOME A MEMBERDONATE TO THE MUSEUM