Marine Corps Tour of Duty

My Grandfather, James N. Hoey, was born in Pittsburgh on 19 Jul 1881. His father died when he was ten years old and James went to work in the local pipe mill to help support the family.

At the age of eighteen he traveled to New York City and enlisted in the Marine Corps on 13 Dec 1899 for a five year tour of duty.

I received his military personnel file which listed his various postings:

Navy Yard, New York City

James was stationed at the Navy Yard in New York City from 13 Dec 1899 until 2 Apr 1900 when he was transferred to the USS Buffalo.

USS Buffalo

Purchased by the Navy in 1898, the USS Buffalo served as an auxiliary cruiser and training vessel. She made several voyages to the Philippines, and James was transferred to the USS Monocacy on 3 Aug 1900.

USS Monocacy

James served aboard this sidewheeler for 38 months. During this time, he participated in the Boxer Rebellion, marched to Peking in March 1901, and was stationed at the American Consulate in Tienstin. He later received the China Relief Expedition Medal.

USS Monterey

The USS Monterey was part of the Asiatic Squadron when James reported for a short stay before transferring to the USS Kentucky on 30 Oct 1903.

USS Kentucky

James served aboard the USS Kentucky for 3 1/2 months, from 30 Oct 1903 until 13 Feb 1904, while it served as the flagship of the Asiatic Fleet.

USS Solace

Transferred on 13 Feb 1904, James served on this hospital ship that carried mail, passengers, and provisions across the Pacific. He was eventually transferred to Mare Island, California.

Mare Island & the Naval Training Station

On 15 Apr 1904, James was transferred to Mare Island, California, where he completed his tour of duty before being honorably discharged on 1 Nov 1904.

Sources:

United States Marine Corps, Military Service Records - James N. Hoey, (Washington, D.C.).
Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships, (US Naval Historical Center, 1959-1991); http://www.hazegray.org/danfs/.