Mons Monssen
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| Mons Monssen | |
|---|---|
| 20 January 1867 - 10 February 1930 | |
 |
|
| Place of birth | Bergen, Norway |
| Place of death | Brooklyn, New York |
| Allegiance | United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1889-1925 |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | USS Missouri (BB-11) |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Mons Monssen (20 January 1867 - 10 February 1930) was born at Bergen, Norway, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy 3 June 1889.
Warranted gunner in 1904, he was serving in USS Missouri (BB-11) 13 April when a charge ignited while a 12‑inch gun was being loaded for target practice. Eighteen officers and men lost their lives. Monssen entered the burning magazine through the scuttle and threw water on the fire with his hands until a hose was passed to him. For his actions he was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Later commissioned lieutenant, July 1918, he retired 15 December 1925 and died at the Naval Hospital, Brooklyn, New York, 10 February 1930.
[edit] See also
See USS Monssen for the two ships named in his honor.
[edit] References
- This article includes text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.
- history.navy.mil: USS Monssen
