Michael McNamara
Private, U.S. Marine Corps

Michael McNamara was born in 1839 in County Clare, Ireland.

On 11 June 1871, Private McNamara was serving on the USS Benicia during the Korean Expedition.

The U.S. Expedition to Korea in 1871, also known as Sinmiyangyo (Western Disturbance of the Year Sinmi year), was the first American military action in Korea. It took place predominantly on and around the Korean island of Ganghwa. The reason for the presence of the American military expeditionary force in Korea was to support an American diplomatic delegation sent to establish trade and diplomatic relations with Korea and to ascertain the fate of the General Sherman merchant ship.

On 8 February 1872, Private Michael McNamara was a recipient of the U.S. military's highest award for valor, the Medal of Honor, for his heroic actions on 11 June 1871.

Medal of Honor:

Rank and organization: Private, U.S. Marine Corps. Born: Clare, Ireland. Accredited to: New York. G.O. No. 169, 8 February 1872.

Citation:

While serving on board the USS Benicia, for gallantry in advancing to the parapet, wrenching the match-lock from the hands of an enemy and killing him, at the capture of the Korean Forts, 11 June 1871.

Death and Burial

Private Michael McNamara died in 1907 and is buried at Hoboken, NJ.