Heinrich Behnke (Medal of Honor)

Heinrich Behnke (April 10, 1882 – June 19, 1952) was a seaman first class serving in the United States Navy who received the Medal of Honor for bravery.

Biography

Behnke was born April 10, 1882 in Germany and after immigrating to the United States he joined the navy in 1902. He was stationed aboard the USS Iowa (BB-4) as a seaman first class when, on January 25, 1905 a manhole plate blew out of boiler D. For his actions received the Medal of Honor March 20, 1905.

He died June 19, 1952 and is buried in Long Island National Cemetery Farmingdale, New York.

Medal of Honor citation

Rank and organization: Seaman First Class, U.S. Navy. Born: 10 April 1882, Germany. Accredited to: Washington, D.C. G.O. No.: 182, 20 March 1905.

Citation:

While serving aboard the U.S.S. Iowa, Behnke displayed extraordinary heroism at the time of the blowing out of the manhole plate of boiler D on board that vessel, 25 January 1905.