The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Ordinary Seaman Thomas Joseph Kersey, United States Navy, for gallant and heroic conduct while serving on board the U.S.S. Plymouth at the Navy Yard, New York, 26 July 1876. Ordinary Seaman Kersey displayed bravery and presence of mind in rescuing from drowning one of the crew of that vessel.