That quality was supplemented by coolness and skill, without which he never could have attained the remarkable success that attended his career.
Among the numerous achievements the following will serve as an illustration of the young man's disposition: Lieutenants Lamson and Cushing had command of a number of gunboats that were sent to the aid of General Peck, stationed at Norfolk.

In the latter part of April it was learned that a Union boat had been decoyed ashore by the display of a white handkerchief and then fired upon.

The angered Cushing asked for and received the privilege of retaliating for this treacherous act.

In charge of seven boats, manned by ninety sailors, he set out and landed under the protection of the fire of the vessels.

Leaving a part of his force to protect the boats, he started inland, taking a 12-pounder howitzer with him.
His objective point was a village three miles away, where several hundred cavalry were stationed.