Medal of Honor: F. F. and F. J. Fletcher

FRANK FRIDAY FLETCHER

Rear Admiral, US Navy; commanding 1st Division, Atlantic Fleet

Born: 23 November 1855, Oskaloosa, Iowa

Citation: For distinguished conduct in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz, 21 and 22 April 1914. Under fire, Rear Adm. Fletcher was eminent and conspicuous in the performance of his duties; was senior officer present at Vera Cruz, and the landing and the operations of the landing force were carried out under his orders and directions. In connection with these operations, he was at times on shore and under fire.





FRANK JACK FLETCHER

Lieutenant, US Navy; commanding transport SS Esperanza

Born: 29 April 1885, Marshalltown, Iowa

Citation: For distinguished conduct in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz, 21 and 22 April 1914. Under fire, Lt. Fletcher was eminent and conspicuous in performance of his duties. He was in charge of the Esperanza and succeeded in getting on board over 350 refugees, many of them after the conflict had commenced. Although the ship was under fire, being struck more than 30 times, he succeeded in getting all the refugees placed in safety. Lt. Fletcher was later placed in charge of the train conveying refugees under a flag of truce. This was hazardous duty, as it was believed that the track was mined, and a small error in dealing with the Mexican guard of soldiers might readily have caused a conflict, such a conflict at one time being narrowly averted. It was greatly due to his efforts in establishing friendly relations with the Mexican soldiers that so many refugees succeeded in reaching Vera Cruz from the interior.


Note: F F Fletcher was F J Fletcher's uncle. USS Fletcher (DD-445) was named for Admiral Frank F Fletcher. USS Fletcher (DD-992) was named for Admiral Frank J Fletcher.