HENRY LAKIN SIMPSON
From USNA Virtual Memorial Hall
HENRY LAKIN SIMPSON
Class of 1882
First Class Fireman
USS Essex
U.S. Navy
October 31, 1877
Monrovia, Liberia
For rescuing from drowning John W. Powers, ordinary seaman on board the U.S.S. Essex, at Monrovia, Liberia, 31 October 1877.
Biography
Henry resigned from the Naval Academy on February 28, 1881; he was a "cadet-engineer".
He was not appointed as a Medal of Honor recipient; the award was made seven years after the event, in 1884 — which was also after his death. You can read more about his life on his wikipedia page.
Medal of Honor Plaque Error
Henry's Medal of Honor was awarded posthumously; this is not noted on the plaque.