Fullbore Friday

In honor of our, ahem, friends the Chinese and their Olympic propaganda ... errrr ... showcase.

---

John McCloy enlisted in the United States Navy on 7 March 1903. He was warranted as a boatswain on 30 July 1903 and commissioned ensign on 1 July 1917.

He received his first Medal of Honor “for distinguished conduct in the presence of the enemy in battles of the 13th, 20th, 21st, and 22nd of June 1900, while with the relief expedition of the Allied Forces in China.”

His second Medal of Honor was awarded to him “for distinguished conduct in battle and extraordinary heroism; engagement of Vera Cruz, April 22, 1914.” Immediately after World War I, he commanded minesweeper USS Curlew (AM-8) clearing the mines of the North Sea mine barrage. For this work he was decorated with the Navy Cross.

He retired from active duty, as lieutenant on 15 October 1928. On 23 February 1942 was promoted to lieutenant commander, retired. He died 25 May 1945 in his home in Leonia, New Jersey[1], and was buried in Arlington National Cemetery.[2]

Medal of Honor

1st Award, Boxer Rebellion

Rank and organization: Coxswain, U.S. Navy. Born: 3 January 1876, Brewsters, N.Y. Accredited to: New York. G.O. No.: 55, 19 July 1901. Other Navy award: Second Medal of Honor. Citation:

In action with the relief expedition of the Allied forces in China, 13, 20, 21, and 22 June 1900. During this period and in the presence of the enemy, Coxswain McCloy distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.

2nd Award, Vera Cruz, Mexico

Rank and organization: Chief Boatswain, U.S. Navy. Born: 3 January 1876, Brewster, N.Y. Accredited to: New York. G.O. No.: 177, 4 December 1915. Other Navy awards: Second Medal of Honor, Navy Cross. Citation:

For heroism in leading 3 picket launches along Vera Cruz sea front, drawing Mexican fire and enabling cruisers to save our men on shore, 22 April 1914. Though wounded, he gallantly remained at his post.

Namesake

* USS McCloy (DE-1038), a Bronstein-class destroyer escort is named in his honor.