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 James Byrnes, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving on board the U.S.S. LOUISVILLE at Fort Hindman, Arkansas, on 10 – 11 January 1863. Carrying out his duties through the thick of battle and acting as Captain of a 9-inch gun, Boatswain’s Mate Brynes consistently showed attention to duty, bravery, and coolness in action against the enemy.