Private James Burnes, a Marine in the U.S. Marine Corps, received the Medal of Honor for gallantry on June 20, 1900 in Tientsin, China during the Boxer Rebellion. At the time he was serving with Capt. Newt H. Hall's Marine Detachment, U.S.S. Newark. Burnes was 30 years old.
27 other service members also received the Medal of Honor for actions on the same day. The medal was presented on April 21, 1902.
Burnes was born on January 14, 1870 in Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts. His Medal of Honor is credited to California.
Burnes is one of 59 Medal of Honor recipients from the Boxer Rebellion and one of 142 credited to California.
Official Medal of Honor citation
In action against the enemy at Tientsin, China, 20 June 1900. Crossing the river in a small boat with three other men while under a heavy fire from the enemy, Burnes assisted in destroying buildings occupied by hostile forces.
Citation text: U.S. Government, public domain.
Timeline
- January 14, 1870Born in Worcester, Worcester County, Massachusetts
- June 20, 1900Act of valor — Tientsin, ChinaAge 30. Capt. Newt H. Hall's Marine Detachment, U.S.S. Newark
- April 21, 1902Medal of Honor presented
