Landsman on board of the U.S.S. _Brooklyn_ in the engagement in Mobile Bay August 5, 1864; conspicuous for bravery, performing his duty in the powder division, at a point where the ship was riddled very much, and in the immediate vicinity of the shell whips, which were twice cleared of men by bursting shells. Was also wounded. (G.O. 45, December 31, 1864.)
Coxswain on board of the U.S.S. _Benton_; conspicuous for skill and courage as captain of 9-inch gun in the attacks on Great Gulf, May 3, 1863, and Vicksburg, May 22, 1863, also in serving at Battery Benton before Vicksburg. (G.O. 32, April 16, 1864.)
Landsman on board of the U.S.S. _Tacony_. At the capture of Plymouth October 31, 1864, he landed and spiked a loaded 9-inch gun under a sharp fire of musketry. (G.O. 45, December 31, 1864.)
LIEUT. COMMANDER ALLEN BUCHANAN, UNITED STATES NAVY.
For distinguished conduct in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz, April 21 and 22, 1914; commanded First Seaman Regiment; was in both days' fighting and almost continually under fire from soon after landing, about noon of the 21st, until we were in possession of the city, about noon of the 22d. His duties required him to be at points of great danger in directing his officers and men, and he exhibited conspicuous courage, coolness, and skill in his conduct of the fighting. Upon his courage and skill depended, in great measure, success or failure. His responsibilities were great, and he met them in a manner worthy of commendation. (G.O. 177, December 4, 1915.)
Apprentice serving on board of the U.S.S. _Saratoga_. On the morning of July 15, 1879, while that vessel was anchored off the Battery, New York Harbor, Robert Lee Robey, apprentice, fell overboard from the afterpart of the ship. The tide was running strong ebb at the time, and Robey, not being an expert swimmer, was in danger of drowning. Buchanan instantly sprang over the rail after him, without hesitating an instant to remove even a portion of his clothing. They were later picked up by the ship's boat. (G.O. 246, July 22, 1879.)
Quartermaster on board of the U.S.S. _Brooklyn_ in the attack upon Forts Jackson and St. Philip and at the taking of New Orleans April 24 and 25, 1862. "Stationed at the wheel. Early in the fight was painfully wounded by a heavy splinter, but for seven hours stood bravely at his post, refusing to go below until positively ordered to do so. Next morning stole to his station and steered the ship over eight hours." Promoted to acting master's mate. (G.O. 11, April 3, 1863.)