West Freemason in Norfolk, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
David D. Barrow and George W. Bright
Norfolk Trail of Honor
— 🎖️ —
Seaman, U.S. Navy
Enlisted in Norfolk
Gregory W. Bright
Coal Passer, U.S. Navy
Born in Norfolk
Both men were stationed onboard USS Nashville (PG-7) which was sent to Cuba during the Spanish-American War. They were directed to cut cables that transmitted communications from Cienfuegos to Havana and other headquarters. The men were put in small boats because the task had to be completed close to shore. They saw mines that could be detonated by the enemy. From the heights of the cliffs overlooking the harbor, the enemy began to fire with great ferocity.
For more than an hour, the small boats with their crews of brave young sailors and Marines endured the dangerous waters, the ever present mines, the crash of large rounds and small arms fire to continue their task. Finally, the cables were cut. “Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, SN Barrow and Coal Passer Bright set an example of extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.” Both men were awarded the Medal of Honor.
Erected 2015 by City of Norfolk.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: War, Spanish-American • Waterways & Vessels . In addition, it is included in the Medal of Honor Recipients series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1898.
Location. 36° 50.933′ N, 76° 17.671′ W. Marker is in Norfolk, Virginia. It is in West Freemason. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Brooke Avenue and Harbour Street, on the left when traveling west. The marker is located just north of Wisconsin Square and south of the Pagoda and Oriental Garden. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 305 Brooke Ave, Norfolk VA 23510, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Thomas Boyne (here, next to this marker); Douglas MacArthur (here, next to this marker); Jacklyn “Jack” H. Lucas (here, next to this marker); Benjamin F. Stewart (here, next to this marker); William Henry Barnes (here, next to this marker); Humbert R. Versace (here, next to this marker); William A. Jones (here, next to this marker); USS Norfolk Bell (here, next to this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Norfolk.
Also see . . .
1. David D. Barrow and George W. Bright. (Submitted on February 1, 2022, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.)
2. Norfolk Trail of Honor. (Submitted on February 1, 2022, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.)
Credits. This page was last revised on February 1, 2023. It was originally submitted on February 1, 2022, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. This page has been viewed 117 times since then and 8 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on February 1, 2022, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.