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Reuben JamesAn American naval officer of the early 19th century
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Content:
- Reuben James: American Naval Hero
- Capture and Raid on the USS Philadelphia
- Service Under Decatur
- War of 1812
- Post-War Service
- Legacy
Reuben James: American Naval Hero
Early Life and ServiceReuben James was born in 1776 in Delaware. He enlisted in the United States Navy and served on various ships, including the USS Constellation.
Capture and Raid on the USS Philadelphia
In October 1803, the Tripolitan fleet captured the frigate USS Philadelphia, which had run aground while patrolling Tripoli Harbor. American sailors attempted to recapture the ship but were unsuccessful. The Philadelphia's crew and captain were taken hostage.
On February 16, 1804, Lieutenant Stephen Decatur and a small group of sailors, including Reuben James, used a captured Tripolitan ketch to approach the Philadelphia undetected. They quickly overpowered the Tripolitan guards and set the ship ablaze, preventing its use. James saved Decatur's life during this raid by intercepting a sword blow.
Service Under Decatur
After the raid on the Philadelphia, James continued his naval career under Decatur. He served on the frigates USS Constitution and USS Congress.
War of 1812
During the War of 1812, James served on the frigates USS United States and USS President, again under Decatur. The President attempted to break out of New York Harbor, but was captured by the British frigate Endymion. James was taken prisoner.
Post-War Service
After returning from captivity, James served on Decatur's flagship, the USS Guerriere. He participated in the capture of the Algerian flagship Meshuda in 1815.
James retired from the Navy in 1836 due to illness and the loss of a leg. He passed away in 1838 at the Washington Naval Hospital.
Legacy
Three U.S. Navy ships have been named Reuben James. Woody Guthrie wrote a song titled "The Sinking of the Reuben James" about the sinking of the first of these ships in World War II.