John McFarland (Medal of Honor recipient)

John C. McFarland
Gravestone of John McFarland
Born	1840 Boston, Massachusetts
Died	October 3, 1881 (aged 40–41) Lowell, Massachusetts
Place of burial	Edson Cemetery Lowell, Massachusetts
Allegiance	United States of America Union
Service/branch	United States Navy Union Navy
Rank	Captain of the Forecastle
Unit	USS Ohio (1820) USS Hartford (1858)
Battles/wars	American Civil War *Battle of Mobile Bay
Awards	Medal of Honor

John C. McFarland (1840 – October 3, 1881) was a sailor in the United States Navy and a recipient of the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the American Civil War.

McFarland entered the Navy at Boston, Massachusetts on December 24, 1861 as seaman on USS Ohio (1820), later transferring to USS Hartford in the West Gulf Blockading Squadron. Rated captain of the forecastle, he had the station at the wheel in every engagement in which Hartford participated. During the Battle of Mobile Bay 4 and August 5, 1864. McFarland left his sickbed to take up station, keeping the wheel of Admiral David Farragut’s flagship throughout the storm of shell and shot. He was commended by his commanding officers for his fortitude and intelligence and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his gallant and meritorious service.

McFarland died on October 3, 1881 at the age of 41.

USS McFarland (DD-237) was named for him.

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