James Lawrence

James Lawrence (October 1, 1781 – June 4, 1813) was an officer of the United States Navy. During the War of 1812, he commanded USS Chesapeake in a single-ship action against HMS Shannon, commanded by Philip Broke. He is probably best known today for his last words, "Don't give up the ship!", uttered during the capture of the Chesapeake. The quotation is still a popular naval battle cry, and was invoked in Oliver Hazard Perry's personal battle flag, adopted to commemorate his dead friend.

For other people named James Lawrence, see James Lawrence (disambiguation).

James Lawrence
portrait by Gilbert Stuart
Born(1781-10-01)October 1, 1781
Burlington, New Jersey, US
DiedJune 4, 1813(1813-06-04) (aged 31)
USS Chesapeake near Boston, Massachusetts, US
Place of burial
Trinity Church Cemetery, New York, New York
Service/branchUnited States Navy
Years of service1798–1813
RankCaptain
Commands held
  • USS Vixen
  • USS Wasp
  • USS Argus
  • USS Hornet
  • USS Chesapeake
Battles/wars
Signature
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