The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Captain of the Foretop James McLeod, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action, serving as Captain of Foretop, and a volunteer from the U.S.S. Colorado. Captain of the Foretop McLeod served on board the U.S.S. Pensacola during the attack upon Forts Jackson and St. Philip, Louisiana, and the taking of New Orleans, 24 and 25 April 1862. Acting as gun Captain of the rifled howitzer aft which was much exposed, he served this piece with great ability and activity, although no officer superintended it.