b. 1836 Peachem, Vermont. d. 02/04/1899 Enid, Oklahoma.
DATE OF MOH ACTION: 15/01/1865 Fort Fisher, North Carolina.
Blair volunteered for service in the U.S. Navy and was assigned to the Union side-wheel gunboat USS Pontoosuc (1864). His enlistment is credited to the state of Maine.
On January 15, 1865, the North Carolina Confederate stronghold of Fort Fisher was taken by a combined Union storming party of sailors, marines, and soldiers under the command of Admiral David Dixon Porter and General Alfred Terry. Blair was exposed to enemy fire while serving on the deck of the Pontoosuc. His Medal was awarded to him on June 22, 1865.
MOH CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Boatswain’s Mate Robert M. Blair, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving on board the U.S.S. Pontoosuc during the capture of Fort Fisher and Wilmington, North Carolina, 24 December 1864 to 22 January 1865. Carrying out his duties faithfully throughout this period, Boatswain’s Mate Blair was recommended for gallantry and skill and for his cool courage while under the fire of the enemy throughout these actions.
BURIAL LOCATION: ENID CEMETERY, ENID, OKLAHOMA.
SECTION O, BLOCK E, LOT 17
LOCATION OF MEDAL: FAMILY.
