William Seach

William Seach (May 23, 1877 – October 24, 1978) was an American sailor serving in the United States Navy during the Boxer Rebellion who received the Medal of Honor for bravery.

Seach was born May 23, 1877 in London, England, and after entering the navy in 1898 he was sent as an Ordinary Seaman to China to fight in the Boxer Rebellion.

He later served on the USS President Lincoln until its sinking and retired with the rank of Lieutenant in 1923. He died October 24, 1978 at the age of 101, and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery Arlington, Virginia. His grave can be found in section 11, lot 334-2. When he died he was the oldest and longest-living recipient of the Medal of Honor, and the last surviving US veteran of the Boxer Rebellion to receive the medal.

Rank and organization: Ordinary Seaman, U.S. Navy. Place and date: China 13, 20, 21, and 22 June 1900. Entered service at: Massachusetts. Born: 23 May 1877, London, England. G.O. No.: 55, 19 July 1901.

Citation:

In action with the relief expedition of the Allied forces in China during the battles of 13, 20, 21 and 22 June 1900. June 13: Seach and 6 others were cited for their courage in repulsing an attack by 300 Chinese Imperialist soldiers and Boxer militants with a bayonet charge, thus thwarting a planned massive attack on the entire force. June 20: During a day-long battle, Seach ran across an open clearing, gained cover, and cleaned out nests of Chinese snipers. June 21: During a surprise sabre attack by Chinese cavalrymen, Seach was cited for defending gun emplacements. June 22: Seach and others breached the wall of a Chinese fort, fought their way to the enemy's guns, and turned the cannon upon the defenders of the fort. Throughout this period and in the presence of the enemy, Seach distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.