title: Mark G. Ham
text: # Mark G. Ham
  
  Mark G. Ham (1820 – 1869) was an American sailor who received the Medal of Honor for valor in action during the American Civil War.
  
  ## Biography
  
  Ham was born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He was a member of the crew of USS Kearsarge when she sank the commerce raider CSS Alabama on June 19, 1864 off Cherbourg, France. During this action, he distinguished himself under heavy fire from the enemy.
  
  Ham is buried in Harmony Grove Cemetery in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
  
  ## Medal of Honor citation
  
  Rank and Organization: Carpenter's Mate, U.S. Navy. Born: 1820, Portsmouth, N.H. Accredited To: New Hampshire. G.O. No.: 45, December 31, 1864.
  
  Citation:
  
     Served on board the U.S.S. Kearsarge when she destroyed the Alabama off Cherbourg, France, June 19, 1864. Performing his duties intelligently and faithfully, Ham distinguished himself in the face of the bitter enemy fire and was highly commended by his divisional officer.
  