Joseph Berry Breck

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Joseph Berry Breck (1830 – 26 July 1865) was an officer in the United States Navy during the American Civil War.

Born in Maine, Breck was appointed an Acting Ensign 27 February 1863. He commanded the screw steamer Niphon during the Civil War, taking a prominent part in the destruction of the saltworks in engagements at Masonboro Inlet, North Carolina, and other expeditions ashore. Although his health was much impaired by his service, Lieutenant Commander Breck remained in command of Niphon until sent home by medical survey.

Breck died on 26 July 1865, a short time after arriving in San Francisco, California. He was later buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

The destroyer USS Breck (DD-283) was named for him.

This article includes text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.