War of 1812 United States Naval Officer. He commanded the frigate "USS Chesapeake" in its battle with the British Royal Navy frigate "HMS Shannon". After a fierce fight, the Shannon defeated Captain Lawrence's command, and he was mortally wounded. His dying words "Don't give up the ship" became a rallying cry during the war, and have achieved legendary status in American history.
War of 1812 United States Naval Officer. He commanded the frigate "USS Chesapeake" in its battle with the British Royal Navy frigate "HMS Shannon". After a fierce fight, the Shannon defeated Captain Lawrence's command, and he was mortally wounded. His dying words "Don't give up the ship" became a rallying cry during the war, and have achieved legendary status in American history.
Inscription
"In memory of Captain JAMES LAWRENCE, of the United States Navy, who fell on the 1st day of June 1813, in the 32nd year of his age, in the action between the frigates Chesapeake and Shannon. He was distinguished on various occasions, but especially, when commanding the sloop of war Hornet he captured and sunk his Brittanick Majesty's sloop of war Peacock after a desperate action of fourteen minutes.
His bravery in action was equalled only by his modesty in triumph, and his magnanimity to the vanguished.
In private life, he was a Gentleman of the most generous and endearing qualities; the whole nation mourned his loss and the Enemy contended with his Countrymen who should most honor his remains."
Family Members
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