DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY -- NAVAL HISTORICAL CENTER
805 KIDDER BREESE SE -- WASHINGTON NAVY YARD
WASHINGTON DC 20374-5060
Mexican War 1846-1848
Friction between the United States and Mexico, aggravated
by an ever-increasing American population in the southwest and
admission of the Texas Republic into the Union, resulted in war.
The Navy's Home and Pacific Squadrons blockaded the enemy's east
and west coasts, seized numerous ports, and conducted amphibious
operations. From the Gulf of Mexico, Commodore M. C. Perry, with
small sidewheel steamers and schooners, fought his way up tortuous
rivers to capture Frontera, San Juan Bautista and other enemy
strongholds and supply sources. Sailors from the Pacific Squadron
under Commodores John Stoat and Robert Stockton landed at Monterey,
San Francisco, and San Diego, assuring success in the California
campaign. Veracruz, key to ultimate victory on the Gulf, fell
before a brilliantly executed amphibious assault planned by Commodore
David Conner. Over 12,000 troops were put ashore with their equipment
in a single day, and at the request of General Winfield Scott
naval gunners and their heavy cannon landed. Joined by guns of
the fleet and Army artillery, the naval battery pounded the enemy
into submission, and opened the way for the capture of Mexico
City.
4 Bronze Stars
1. Veracruz landing (9 March 1847)
2. Riverine operations
3. East coast blockade
4. West coast blockade and operations in California
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