The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Fireman Second Class John W. Magee, United States Navy, for gallant and heroic conduct while serving on board the U.S.S. Tallapoosa during the sinking of that vessel on the night of 21 August 1884. During this period, Fireman Second Class Magee remained at his post of duty in the fireroom until the fires were put out by the rising waters.