In Recognition of Veterans Day
The RESEARCH LIBRARY is Open & FREE

Mount Moriah Cemetery
  VA Plot 2-22-01 

Born:  1804 at Baltimore, MD

Entered Service in the US Navy from Maryland

Earned The Medal of Honor During the Civil War For heroism April 24 - 25, 1862 & February 27, 1863 at New Orleans, LA & Ft McAlister, GA

On April 24, 1862, the Union Navy launched an effort to capture New Orleans to close the important Southern port. New Orleans was protected by Forts Jackson and Philip in commanding positions above the river entrance and mounting a combined total of 128 guns. Additionally, the Confederate fleet numbered fourteen vessels to prevent the Union Navy from taking New Orleans. Twenty sailors from eight Union ships earned Medals of Honor in this action, eleven of them for heroism on both days of the operation that lead to the capture of New Orleans. Captain of the Forecastle Henry Shutes served in this action aboard the U.S.S. Wissahickon and was cited for his heroism. His courage in action on February 27, 1863, during action at Fort McAllister, Georgia was also noted. In that latter action, showing a presence of mind and prompt action when a shot from Fort McAllister penetrated the Wissahickon below the water line and entered the powder magazine, Captain of the Forecastle Shutes contributed materially to the preservation of the powder and safety of the ship.