John Coleman was a United States Marine who received the United States military's highest decoration for bravery—the Medal of Honor

Medal of Honor

The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. It is bestowed by the President, in the name of Congress, upon members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguish themselves through "conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her...

—for his actions during the Korean Expedition. He was Irish-born, and received the Medal for saving the life of Boatswain's Mate

Boatswain's Mate (US Navy)

The United States Navy occupational rating of boatswain's mate is a designation given by the Bureau of Naval Personnel to enlisted members who are rated or "striking" for the rating as a deck seaman. The colloquial form of address for a boatswain's mate is 'Boats'...

 Alexander McKenzie

Alexander McKenzie

Alexander McKenzie was a United States Navy Boatswain's Mate who received the Medal of Honor during the Korean Expedition. He was wounded in the rescue of Lieutenant Hugh McKee and was struck by a sword.-Medal of Honor citation:...

 while under enemy attack on the .

Medal of Honor citation

Rank and organization. Private, U.S. Marine Corps. Born: October 9, 1847, Ireland. Accredited to: California. G.O. No. 169, February 8, 1872.

Citation.

On board the U.S.S. Colorado in action at Korea on 11 June 1871. Fighting hand-to-hand with the enemy, Coleman succeeded in saving the life of Alexander McKenzie.

See also

• List of Medal of Honor recipients