Cardenas Medal facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cardenas Medal of Honor |
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| Type | Medal in Gold, Silver, and Bronze |
| Eligibility | Crew of the USRC Hudson |
| Awarded for | The gallantry displayed by Frank H. Newcomb, his officers and the men, for their intrepid and heroic gallantry in the action at Cardenas, Cuba |
| Statistics | |
| Established | May 3, 1900 |
| 1930 Order of Wear | |
| Next (higher) | Good Conduct Medal |
| Equivalent | Dewey Medal |
| Next (lower) | Sampson Medal |
 Service ribbon of the medal |
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The Cardenas Medal was a special award given for incredible bravery. The United States Congress approved this medal on May 3, 1900. It honored the brave crew of the ship called the USRC Hudson. They showed amazing courage during a battle in Cárdenas, Cuba. This happened during the Spanish–American War.
Contents
Why the Medal Was Given
This medal was created to recognize a truly heroic act. It honored First Lieutenant Frank H. Newcomb, who commanded the Hudson. It also honored his officers and all the men on his ship.
A Daring Rescue Mission
On May 11, 1898, the Hudson was in a fierce battle. They were fighting in Cárdenas, Cuba. During this fight, a U.S. Navy torpedo boat, the Winslow, got into serious trouble. The Winslow was damaged and couldn't move. Its captain was hurt, and half its crew were gone.
The Hudson bravely sailed right into the most dangerous part of the battle. Even though the water was shallow and they risked getting stuck, Commander Newcomb kept his ship there. He worked to get a rope attached to the disabled Winslow. Finally, they managed to pull the Winslow out of the enemy's firing range. This was a very brave and important rescue.
Who Received Which Medal
To celebrate this amazing act of heroism, different medals were given.
- First Lieutenant Frank H. Newcomb received a special gold medal.
- Each of his officers received a silver medal.
- Every member of his crew received a bronze medal.
What the Medal Looks Like
The Cardenas Medal was designed by Charles E. Barber. Only one gold medal was made. Four silver medals were created for the officers. Seventeen bronze medals were made for the crew members.
The Front of the Medal
The front of the medal shows a figure named Victory. She is a goddess from old stories. She wears a winged cap, like a helmet with wings. In her right hand, she holds a sword. In her left hand, she holds an olive branch, which means peace. In the background, you can see the Hudson tying up to the Winslow. At the bottom, it says CARDENAS MAY 11, 1898. This is the date of the brave rescue.
The Back of the Medal
The back of the medal has an important message. It says: JOINT RESOLUTIONS OF CONGRESS APPROVED MAY 3, 1900. IN RECOGNITION OF THE GALLANTRY OF THE OFFICERS AND MEN OF THE HUDSON WHO IN THE FACE OF GALLING FIRE TOWED THE WINSLOW OUT OF RANGE OF THE ENEMY'S GUNS.
To the right of this writing, there is a female figure. She is holding a chisel and a hammer. To the left, you can see a palm leaf and a laurel branch. These are symbols of victory and honor. At the very bottom, there is a blank space. This is where the names of the people who received the medal were engraved.
How the Medals Were Used
The Cardenas Medal was first made in two forms. One was a larger "table top" medal, meant to be displayed. The other was a smaller medal that could be worn. Both types were made in 1902. This medal was considered an important award. It was still listed in official rules for wearing medals as late as 1930.
See also
- Congressional Gold Medal
- Four Chaplains' Medal
- Specially Meritorious Service Medal
