John Davis (American Civil War sailor)  Quarter Gunner John Davis (died 17 November 1863) was an American sailor who fought in the American Civil War. Davis received the country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor, for his action aboard the "USS Valley City" on 10 February 1862. He was honored with the award on 3 April 1863. Davis was born in the Cedarville section of Lawrence Township, Cumberland County, New Jersey. He enlisted into the United States Navy from New Jersey. Davis died in the New York City Naval Hospital on 17 November 1863 (possibly due to his injuries) and was buried at an unknown location.