Stephen Decatur

Stephen Decatur, Jr. (January 5, 1779 - March 22, 1820) was an American naval officer notable for his heroism in actions at Tripoli, Libya and in the War of 1812.

He was born in Sinnepuxent[?], and was appointed midshipman[?] in the Navy on April 30, 1798, serving in the USS United States.

In the war against Tripoli, on February 16, 1804, he went into the harbor, recaptured the USS Philadelphia[?], and then destroyed her.

On October 25, 1812, now commanding the United States, he captured the HMS Macedonian. In 1814 he flew a pennant as Commodore commanding the USS President[?] and three smaller vessels in the West Indies. Unfortunately he fell in with the British West Indies Squadron January 15, 1815, and had to surrender the President after a fierce fight.

Between 1816 and 1820, Decatur was a Navy Commissioner[?].

In 1820, he feuded with Commodore Barron[?]; they fought a duel which resulted in Decatur's death.