Joel Abbot

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Joel Abbot (January 18, 1793-December 14, 1855) was a U.S. naval officer who served notably in the War of 1812, and commanded a squadron during Commodore Perry's 1852 visit to Japan.

Born in Westford, Massachusetts, Abbot entered the Navy as midshipman at the beginning of the War of 1812, serving first on the frigate President and next on Lake Champlain with Commodore Macdonough, who, when he asked Abbot if he were ready to die for his country received the reply "Certainly, sir; that is what I came into the service for." Abbot was then ordered to enter the British lines as a spy and destroy a number of spars which had been stored at Sorel. For his success in this dangerous exploit, and for his bravery in the engagement at Cumberland Head on Sept. 11, 1814, the young officer received a sword of honor from Congress and was commissioned a lieutenant. In 1818, he was given charge of the pirate ship Mariana.

Abbot was promoted to commander in 1838, and the following year was given command of the Boston Navy Yard. During Commodore Perry's expedition to Japan in 1852 Abbot commanded the Macedonian, and later was appointed Flag Officer of the squadron. He died in Hong-Kong in 1855.

Ships named USS Abbot were named in his honor.

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