George Washington Bright


George Washington Bright was an American sailor serving in the United States Navy during the Spanish–American War who received the Medal of Honor for his actions.

Biography

Bright was born December 27, 1874 in Norfolk, Virginia, and after entering the navy he was sent as a Coal Passer to fight in the Spanish–American War aboard the.
He died March 20, 1949 and is buried in Blandford Cemetery Petersburg, Virginia. His grave can be found in ward C, section 13, lot 6.

Medal of Honor citation

Rank and organization: Coal Passer, U.S. Navy. Born: 27 December 1874, Norfolk, Va. Accredited to: Virginia. G.O. No.: 521, 7 July 1899.
Citation:
On board the U.S.S. Nashville during the cutting of the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Bright set an example of extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.