The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Seaman Benjamin Swearer, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action while embarked in a surfboat from the U.S.S. Pawnee during action against Fort Clark, off Baltimore Inlet, Maryland, 29 August 1861. Taking part in a mission to land troops and to remain inshore and provide protection, Seaman Swearer rendered gallant service throughout the action and had the honor of being the first man to raise the flag on the captured fort.