b. 22/02/1881 Athens, Missouri. d. 28/12/1939 Brooklyn, New York.
DATE OF MOH ACTION: 22/04/1914 Veracruz, Mexico.
Julius C Townsend MOH
Born in Athens, Missouri, he graduated from the United States Naval Academy and was commissioned an Ensign in 1902.
Serving as a Lieutenant during the engagement of Vera Cruz, Mexico, on April 22, 1914, he took comand of his unit. He then exhibited skill in leading his men through the action of the final occupation of the city. For conspicuous gallantry and leadership, he was awarded the Medal of Honor on December 14, 1915.
Remaining in the Navy, as a Captain in command of the U.S.S. Galveston, he was awarded the Navy Cross for actions in the Fall of 1926 and the Spring of 1927, in the waters at Nicaragua then being in a state of insurrection. He served as Commander, USN Aviation Base, Aghada, County Cork, Ireland in World War I and was in command of the Cruisers Battle Forces U.S. Fleet, in 1936. He retired a Rear Admiral in the the spring of 1939 and died later that year at age 58.
MOH CITATION:
For distinguished conduct in battle, engagement of Vera Cruz, 22 April 1914. Lt. Townsend was eminent and conspicuous in command of his battalion. He exhibited courage and skill in leading his men through the action of the 22d and in the final occupation of the city.
BURIAL LOCATION: ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY, ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA.
SECTION 6, GRAVE 8590.
LOCATION OF MEDAL: FAMILY.
