Richards, Louis - The National Medal of Honor Museum

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U.S. Navy

Richards, Louis

ConflictCivil War

RankActing Master's Mate

Year of Action1862

Unit/CommandUSS Pensacola

BirthplaceNew York, New York

Citation

Richards served as quartermaster on board the USS Pensacola in the attack upon Forts Jackson and St. Philip, and at the taking of New Orleans, 24 and 25 April 1862. Through all the din and roar of battle, he steered the ship through the narrow opening of the barricade, and his attention to orders contributed to the successful passage of the ship without once fouling the shore or the obstacles of the barricade.

Branch: U.S. Navy Conflict: Civil War Year of Action: 1862