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Percival
Clarence
Pope
February 28, 1841

–

January 23, 1922

Percival Pope was the only Marine actually awarded the Brevet Medal for his actions during the Civil War. (James Forney was to have received the Brevet Medal for Civil War gallantry, but died before the Medal could be presented.) In 1901 he commanded a Marine Regiment at the inaugural parade for President William McKinley. After serving more than 43 years in the Marine Corps, he retired on his 64th Birthday in 1905, at which time he was promoted to Brigadier General on the retired list. His Brevet Medal, along with his other awards, are on display at the Navy Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., and is the only known original Marine Corps Brevet Medal on public display.

Awards Received

  • Marine Corps Brevet Medal

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Division:

    U.S.S. Powhatan

    Action Date:

    March 2, 1861
    Marine Corps Orders No. 26 (June 27, 1921)

    The Secretary of the Navy takes pleasure in transmitting to First Lieutenant Percival Clarence Pope, United States Marine Corps, the Brevet Medal which is awarded in accordance with Marine Corps Order No. 26 (1921), for gallant and meritorious service while serving aboard the U.S.S. POWHATAN during the night attack upon Fort Sumter, on 2 March 1861. On 8 September 1863 First Lieutenant Pope is appointed Captain, by brevet, to rank from 8 September 1863.