The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Boatswain’s Mate Thomas Perry, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action as Boatswain’s Mate on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864. Acting as Captain of the No. 2 gun during this bitter engagement, Boatswain’s Mate Perry exhibited marked coolness and good conduct under the enemy fire and was recommended for gallantry by his divisional officer.