Science Fair Project Encyclopedia
Presley O'Bannon
Presley Neville O’Bannon (1784 – 12 September 1850) was an officer in the United States Marine Corps, famous for his exploits in the First Barbary War.
Born in Fauquier County, Virginia, O'Bannon entered the Marine Corps 18 January 1801. As a first lieutenant he commanded a detachment of marines in General William Eaton’s little force in the War with Tripoli. During the combined operations with the U.S. Navy, he led the successful attack in the Battle of Derna 27 April 1805, giving the Marine Corps Hymn its immortal “to the shores of Tripoli”. So impressed with O'Bannon's bravery, that following the attack, Hamet Karamanli presented Lt. O'Bannon with a Mameluke sword. Marines continue to carry a sword of this type.
After resigning from the Marine Corps 6 March 1807, O’Bannon lived in Franklin County, Kentucky, where he died 12 September 1850.
Three Navy ships have been named USS O'Bannon in his honor.
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