Benjamin Franklin Baker

Chief Master-at-Arms, U.S. Navy

Medal of Honor Recipient

Spanish-American War

Chief Master-at-Arms Benjamin F. Baker (12 March 1862 - 19 May 1927) was a U.S. Navy sailor who received the U.S. military's highest award for valor, the Medal of Honor, for his heroic actions during the Spanish-American War.

Biography

Benjamin F. Baker was born on 12 March 1862 at Dennis Port, MA. He served in the Spanish-American War on board USS Nashville. On 11 May 1898, while serving as a Coxswain, he was one of several men who took part in a boat expedition that cut the underwater telegraph cable off Cienfuegos, Cuba. For his actions during this operation, he was awarded the Medal of Honor.

Medal of Honor

Rank and organization: Coxswain, U.S. Navy

Citation: On board the USS Nashville during the cutting of the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Baker set an example of extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.

Death and Burial

Coxswain Benjamin F. Baker died on 19 May 1927. He is buried at Swan Lake Cemetery in Dennis Port, MA.