John Arthur Hughes

Colonel, U.S. Marines Corps

Medal of Honor Recipient

Occupation of Veracruz

Colonel John Arthur Hughes (2 November 1880 - 25 May 1942) was a U.S. Marine Corps officer who received the U.S. military's highest award for valor, the Medal of Honor, for his heroic actions during the Occupation of Veracruz.

John Arthur Hughes was born in New York City, NY, on 2 November 1880.

Medal of Honor

Rank and organization: Captain, U.S. Marine Corps

Citation: For distinguished conduct in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz, 21 and 22 April 1914. Capt. Hughes was in both days' fighting at the head of his company, and was eminent and conspicuous in his conduct, leading his men with skill and courage.

Navy Cross

The Navy Cross is presented to John A. Hughes, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service as Battalion Commander, 1st Battalion, 6th Regiment Marines. In the operations of his battalion at Belleau Woods from the 10th to the 13th of June, 1918, Lieutenant Colonel Hughes showed himself a gallant, courageous and determined commander of men.

Inflicting severe losses on the enemy, capturing many prisoners, twenty machine guns, six minnenwerfers and other booty. The brilliant success of this battalion was in a great measure due to his coolness in all crises, unfailing good humor and accurate judgment. Lieutenant Colonel Hughes led his men superbly under most trying conditions against the most distinguished elements of the German Army, administering to those organizations their first defeat.

Medals and Awards

Medal of Honor
Navy Cross
Purple Heart Medal
Croix de Guerre with Palm

Death and Burial

Colonel John Arthur Hughes died 25 May 1942. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA, in Section 8, Lot 5265.