Navy Federal Credit Union

When William Seach died on October 8, 1978, he was 101 years old and one of only three pre-World War I recipients still living. At the time of his death he was the oldest living recipient of the Medal of Honor, and remains the longest-living of all recipients.

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Ordinary Seaman

    Division:

    U.S.S. Newark

    Action Date:

    June 13 & 20 – 22, 1900

    War Department, General Orders No. 55 (July 19, 1901)

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Ordinary Seaman William Seach, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action with the relief expedition of the Allied forces in China during the battles of 13, 20, 21 and 22 June 1900, while serving with a detachment from the U.S.S. Newark. On 13 June Ordinary Seaman Seach and six others were cited for their courage in repulsing an attack by 300 Chinese Imperialist soldiers and Boxer militants with a bayonet charge, thus thwarting a planned massive attack on the entire force. On 20 June during a day-long battle, Seach ran across an open clearing, gained cover, and cleaned out nests of Chinese snipers. On 21 June during a surprise saber attack by Chinese cavalrymen, Seach was cited for defending gun emplacements. On 22 June Seach and others breached the wall of a Chinese fort, fought their way to the enemy’s guns, and turned the cannon upon the defenders of the fort. Throughout this period and in the presence of the enemy, Ordinary Seaman Seach distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.