Statue of David Farragut (New York City)

The bronze figure before you represents Admiral David Glasgow Farragut, a decisive Union commander during the American Civil War. He gained national renown for his aggressive naval tactics, most notably at the Battle of Mobile Bay, where he famously ordered his fleet to charge through a minefield despite the grave danger to his ships. His leadership was so instrumental to the Union cause that Congress created the rank of rear admiral specifically to honor him, making him the first officer in United States history to hold that title, and eventually the first full admiral.