[2] In his early 50s, Foy joined the Navy from Boston in July 1861, and was assigned to the Union steamer USS Rhode Island (1861).

[3] On January 15, 1865, the North Carolina Confederate stronghold of Fort Fisher was taken by a combined Union storming party of sailors, marines, and soldiers under the command of Admiral David Dixon Porter and General Alfred Terry.

Rhode Island during the action with Fort Fisher and the Federal Point batteries, North Carolina, 13 to 15 January 1865.

Carrying out his duties courageously during the battle, Signal Quartermaster Foy continued to be outstanding by his good conduct and faithful services throughout this engagement which resulted in a heavy casualty list when an attempt was made to storm Fort Fisher.General Orders: War Department, General Orders No.

59 (June 22, 1865) Action Date: January 15, 1865 Service: Navy Rank: Signal Quartermaster Division: U.S.S.