b. 1836 New Jersey. d. ?
DATE OF MOH ACTION: 19/06/1864 off Cherbourg, France.
On June 19, 1864 he was serving as Captain of the Top on the sloop of war USS Kearsarge when she sank the commerce raider CSS Alabama off Cherbourg, France. He was awarded his Medal of Honor for gallantry under fire exhibited while crewing the ship’s Number 1 gun. He left the service before his Medal of Honor was awarded and is currently on display at the National Museum of the United States Navy.
MOH CITATION:
Served as captain of the top on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864. Acting as captain of the No. 1 gun, Strahan carried out his duties in the face of heavy enemy fire and exhibited marked coolness and good conduct throughout the engagement. Strahan was highly recommended by his division officer for his gallantry and meritorious achievements.
BURIAL LOCATION: UNKNOWN.
LOCATION OF MEDAL: NAVAL HISTORICAL CENTER, WASHINGTON NAVY YARD, WASHINGTON DC.