Hans Johnsen
Hans Johnsen (January 3, 1865 – June 17, 1920) was a chief machinist serving in the United States Navy during the Spanish–American War who received the Medal of Honor for bravery.
Hans Johnsen | |
|---|---|
| Born | January 3, 1865 Sandnes, Norway |
| Died | June 17, 1920 (aged 55) |
| Place of burial | Bayview-New York Bay Cemetery Jersey City, New Jersey |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ | United States Navy |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | USS Winslow |
| Battles/wars | Spanish–American War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Biography
Johnsen was born January 3, 1865 in Sandnes, Norway and after entering the navy was sent to fight in the Spanish–American War aboard the torpedo boat USS Winslow as a chief machinist.[1]
Johnsen was warranted as a gunner on June 27, 1898 and was promoted to chief gunner on June 27, 1904. During World War I, he received a temporary promotion to lieutenant on July 1, 1918.
He died June 17, 1920 and is buried in Bayview-New York Bay Cemetery Jersey City, New Jersey.[2] His grave can be found in the Edgewood section, lot 468.[2]
Medal of Honor citation
Rank and organization: Chief Machinist, U.S. Navy. Born: 3 January 1865, Sandnes, Norway. Accredited to: Pennsylvania. G.O. No.: 497, 3 September 1898.
Citation:
On board the torpedo boat Winslow during the action at Cardenas, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Showing great presence of mind, Johnsen turned off the steam from the engine which had been wrecked by a shell bursting in the cylinder.[1]
References
- "Johnsen, Hans". Medal of Honor recipients, War With Spain. United States Army Center of Military History. Retrieved July 11, 2010.
- "Hans Johnsen". Claim to Fame: Medal of Honor recipients. Find a Grave. Retrieved July 11, 2010.