JAMES ARMSTRONG, PASSED MIDN, USN
James should not be included in Memorial Hall for the reason listed at the bottom of this page. However, this entry remains so we do not lose his memory or the knowledge of his life and service.
James Armstrong '47
Loss
James died on September 19, 1854 "after a long and painful illness."
Other Information
From researcher Kathy Franz:
In 1850 James had been on the Porpoise in Africa for four years and three months. He spent his leave in Norfolk before going to the National Observatory. In 1850 he took leave because of his health and went to Red Sulphur Springs, Salt Springs, and Bath Alum Springs in Virginia. He was at the Naval Academy in October when he asked for a leave to see his brother William, age 20, who was leaving for California. In 1852 he was at the Naval Academy, and in 1853 he was on the Relief. In August he was in Binghamton, New York, and wrote two letters about being on leave or furlough because of illness. He later requested these letters be returned to him. In November with no change in his health, he moved to Natchez, Mississippi. In 1854 he wrote that the Hot Springs in Arkansas were too cold right now, and that he still suffered from violent rheumatic pains in the head. He received an extension of his leave in April and died in September.
He was born in, and appointed to the Naval Academy from, Maryland. He is buried in Norfolk, Virginia.
Career
From the Naval History and Heritage Command:
Midshipman, 9 September, 1841. Passed Midshipman, 10 August, 1847. Died 18 September, 1854.
Memorial Hall Error
Illness is not a criteria for inclusion in Memorial Hall.