Battle of San Fernando facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of San Fernando
Part of United States occupation of Nicaragua, Banana Wars
Date 25 July 1927 Location San Fernando, Nicaragua Result American-Nicaraguan victory
Belligerents
United States Nicaragua	Sandinistas
Commanders and leaders
Maj. Oliver Floyd	Augusto César Sandino
Strength
78 marines 37 national guard	40 guerrillas
Casualties and losses
1 killed (died of wounds)	11+ killed
1 woman wounded

The Battle of San Fernando happened on July 25, 1927. It was part of the American occupation of Nicaragua, which lasted from 1926 to 1933. This battle took place shortly after another fight called the Battle of Ocotal.

American Marines and Nicaraguan soldiers were searching for a rebel leader named Augusto César Sandino. Major Oliver Floyd led this group. They were heading towards the town of San Fernando.

What Happened in San Fernando?

Sandino and about 40 of his men were waiting in San Fernando. He had placed a lookout outside the town. This lookout was supposed to warn Sandino's men when the American and Nicaraguan troops arrived.

However, the lookout left his post. He was not there to give the warning. So, the Marines and Nicaraguan government troops marched into San Fernando without being noticed. They entered the town around 3:00 PM.

The Fight Begins

The town seemed mostly empty at first. Captain Victor F. Bleasdale and Private Rafael Toro, a Marine, rode across the town's open plaza. They wanted to question an old man. Suddenly, Sandino's waiting men opened fire.

Private Rafael Toro was badly wounded in this surprise attack. The fighting quickly became intense. The Sandinistas fought hard but were eventually pushed back.

Battle Results and Casualties

The battle ended around 3:45 PM. The Sandinistas left behind at least 11 of their dead. The American and Nicaraguan forces had one casualty: Private Rafael Toro, who later died from his wounds. Sadly, one woman was also wounded in her legs by automatic weapon fire during the battle.

After the fight, Major Floyd realized something important. He understood that the conflict was not going to be easy. He knew they would have to fight a "real small war" in Nicaragua.

After the Battle

Major Floyd's group of Marines and Nicaraguan soldiers kept moving north. They continued their mission in northern Nicaragua. Just two days later, on July 27, 1927, they faced another ambush. This next battle was called the Battle of Santa Clara.