The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Seaman Thomas G. Lyons, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action, serving as Seaman on board the U.S.S. Pensacola in the attack on Forts Jackson and St. Philip, Louisiana, 24 April 1862. Carrying out his duties throughout the din and roar of the battle, Seaman Lyons never once erred in his brave performance. Lashed outside of that vessel, on the port-sheet chain, with the lead in hand to lead the ship past the forts, Lyons never flinched, although under a heavy fire from the forts and rebel gunboats.