John (2) Smith

I represent John Smith. I held the rank of Seaman aboard the U.S. Sloop of War HORNET. I first reported on board on March 24, 1821, in New York. Not only did the HORNET participate in the changing of the flag ceremony on July 17, 1821, gaily decked out in Pensacola Bay for the festivities, we brought James G. Forbes from Havana to Pensacola with the official orders from the Captain General of Cuba authorizing the transfer. We were also one of the vessels that evacuated Spanish officers and citizens who were leaving Pensacola when it became American. (Note: There were 2 other John Smiths on board at the same time I was: another ranked Seaman and one ranked Ordinary Seaman.)