Born in 1846 in St. John's, Newfoundland, Kersey immigrated to the United States and was living in Everett, Massachusetts, when he joined the Navy on October 19, 1870, for a 3-year enlistment.

[1][2] By July 26, 1876, he was serving as an ordinary seaman on the 14-gun screw sloop USS Plymouth.

Two other Plymouth sailors, Landsman William Corey and Seaman Charles Gidding, attempted to rescue a shipmate from drowning on the same day and also received the medal.

Kersey's official Medal of Honor citation reads: Serving on board the U.S.S.

Plymouth at the Navy Yard, New York, 26 July 1876, Kersey displayed bravery and presence of mind in rescuing from drowning one of the crew of that vessel.