The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Chief Quartermaster James W. Verney, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving as Chief Quartermaster on board the U.S.S. Pontoosuc during the capture of Forts Fisher and Wilmington, North Carolina, 24 December 1864 to 22 February 1865. Carrying out his duties faithfully throughout this period, Chief Quartermaster Verney was recommended for gallantry and skill and for his cool courage while under fire of the enemy throughout these various actions.