Seaman Thomas Burke was a sailor in the U.S. Navy who received the Medal of Honor for his actions on May 10, 1866 off Eastport, Maine — a peacetime act of courage recognized in the Interim 1865 - 1870 period. At the time he was serving with U.S.S. Winooski. Burke was about 33 years old.
2 other service members also received the Medal of Honor for actions on the same day.
Burke was born in 1833 in Ireland — one of 258 recipients born in Ireland. His Medal of Honor is credited to New York. Burke died on October 27, 1883 in Pensacola, Florida, at the age of about 50. He is buried at St. Michael's Church Cemetery in Pensacola, Florida.
Official Medal of Honor citation
For heroic conduct with two comrades, in rescuing from drowning James Rose and John Russell, seamen of the U.S.S. Winooski, off Eastport, Maine, 10 May 1866.
Citation text: U.S. Government, public domain.
Timeline
- 1833Born in Ireland
- May 10, 1866Act of valor — off Eastport, MaineAge about 33. U.S.S. Winooski
- October 27, 1883Died in Pensacola, FloridaAge about 50.
- Resting placeSt. Michael's Church CemeteryPensacola, Florida
