Gunner's Mate Third Class Martin Torinus Torgerson was a sailor in the U.S. Navy who received the Medal of Honor for his actions between June 20 and 22, 1900 in China during the Boxer Rebellion. At the time he was serving with U.S.S. Newark. Torgerson was 24 years old.
27 other service members also received the Medal of Honor for actions on the same day.
Torgerson was born on November 7, 1875 in Oleesen, Norway — one of 22 recipients born in Norway. His Medal of Honor is credited to Virginia. Torgerson died on June 12, 1935 in Rosedale, New York, at the age of 59. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.
Torgerson is one of 59 Medal of Honor recipients from the Boxer Rebellion and one of 48 credited to Virginia.
Official 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, Torgerson distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.
Citation text: U.S. Government, public domain.
Timeline
- November 7, 1875Born in Oleesen, Norway
- June 20 - 22, 1900Act of valor — ChinaAge 24. U.S.S. Newark
- June 12, 1935Died in Rosedale, New YorkAge 59.
- Resting placeArlington National CemeteryArlington, Virginia
