Silas Duncan

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Silas M. Duncan (1788 – 14 September 1834) was an officer in the United States Navy during the War of 1812.

Born in Rockaway, New Jersey, Duncan was appointed midshipman 15 November 1809. While third lieutenant of Saratoga during the Battle of Lake Champlain, 11 September 1814, he was sent in a gig to order the gunboats to retire. He succeeded in delivering the orders despite concentrated enemy fire which severely wounded him and caused the loss of his right arm. For his gallant conduct he was thanked by Congress. From 1818 to 1824 Commander Duncan saw active service on board Independence, Hornet, Guerriere, Cyane, and Ferret.

He married Martha Dandridge Aylett in 1831 in Virginia.

In late 1831, he commanded Lexington and attacked the Falkland Islands following the capture of American fishing vessels. He took several prisoners, who were later released to the government of Argentina.

He died in 1834 at White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

Four ships have been named USS Duncan for him.

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