Edward Orrick McDonnell

Vice Admiral, U.S. Navy

Medal of Honor Recipient

Occupation of Veracruz

Vice Admiral Edward Orrick McDonnell (13 November 1891 - 6 January 1960) was a U.S. Navy 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.

Edward Orrick McDonnell was born on 13 November 1891 in Baltimore, MD. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1912.

Medal of Honor

Rank and organization: Ensign, U.S. Navy

Citation: For extraordinary heroism in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz, 21 and 22 April 1914. Posted on the roof of the Terminal Hotel and landing, Ens. McDonnell established a signal station there day and night, maintaining communication between troops and ships. At this exposed post he was continually under fire. One man was killed and 3 wounded at his side during the 2 days' fighting. He showed extraordinary heroism and striking courage and maintained his station in the highest degree of efficiency. All signals got through, largely due to his heroic devotion to duty.

Honors

The frigate USS Edward McDonnell was named in his memory.

Death and Burial

Vice Admiral Edward Orrick McDonnell died on 6 January 1960. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA, in Section 2, Lot 4955-4.