John Hayes (sailor)

John Hayes was a veteran of the American Civil War and a recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Biography
Hayes was born in Newfoundland, Canada, but left his home at an early age to work on British and American merchant vessels in the years leading up to the Civil War. He joined the United States Navy in December 1861. He served throughout the Civil War and was discharged in August 1868.

Later in 1868, Hayes moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin and served on several ships that sailed the Great Lakes. He soon abandoned his naval lifestyle and settled down on a farm in Wisconsin and married. Near the end of his life, Hayes moved to Blairstown, Iowa, to be near his daughter. He passed away in January 1911.

Battle of Cherbourg
In June of 1864, Hayes was serving as the second captain of the number two gun of the USS Kearsarge. The ship was pursuing the CSS Alabama, a successful commerce raiding ship. On June 19, 1864, the USS Kearsarge found the CSS Alabama off of the coast of the French port of Cherbourg. The two ships battled, and the CSS Alabama was destroyed in less than an hour. The accuracey of the gun operated by Hayes was instrumental in sinking the CSS Alabama. Hayes received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the battle.

Citation
"Served on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, 19 June 1864. Acting as second captain of the No. 2 gun during this bitter engagement, Hayes exhibited marked coolness and good conduct and was highly recommended for his gallantry under fire by the divisional officer."