James Cooney (Medal of Honor)


James Cooney was an Irishman serving in the United States Marine Corps during the Boxer Rebellion who received the Medal of Honor for bravery.

Biography

Cooney was born July 27, 1860 in Limerick, Ireland and enlisted into the Marine Corps August 19, 1889. After entering the Marine Corps he was sent to fight in the Chinese Boxer Rebellion.
He received his Medal for his actions in Tientsin, China July 13, 1900. The Medal was presented to him January 24, 1902.
He died March 14, 1903 in Vallejo, California and is buried there in Mare Island Cemetery. His grave can be found in section D, row 10, plot 093.

Medal of Honor citation

Rank and organization: Private, U.S. Marine Corps. Born: 27 July 1860, Limerick, Ireland. Accredited to: Massachusetts. G.O. No.: 55, 19 July 1901.
Citation:
In the presence of the enemy during the battle near Tientsin, China, 13 July 1900, Cooney distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.