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In 1898, the battleship Maine exploded in Havana's harbor, killing more
than 250 personnel, including 22 black sailors. Despite
Spanish claims that the explosion was an unfortunate internal
accident, political leaders viewed the event as an act of war and the
Spanish American war was ignited. The U.S. Army used African-American
troops extensively during the campaigns in Cuba and the Philippines.
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EDWARD L. BAKER, JR.
Rank and organization: Sergeant Major, 10th U.S. Cavalry
Place and date: At Santiago, Cuba, 1 July 1898
Citation: Left cover and, under fire, rescued a wounded comrade
from drowning.
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WILLIAM H. THOMPKINS
Rank and organization: Private, Troop G, 10th U.S. Cavalry
Place and date: At Tayabacoa, Cuba, 30 June 1898
Citation: Voluntarily went ashore in the face of the enemy and
aided in the rescue of his wounded comrades; this after several
previous attempts at rescue had been frustrated.
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