Naval History and Heritage Command

These individuals earned the Navy Medal of Honor during the period specified. Their names are followed by their rank and rate, if known, the date of the action and the vessel or unit on which they served.

14 April 1997

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Surgeon Middleton S. Elliott United States Navy

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty during engagements of Vera Cruz on 21 and 22 April 1914. Surgeon Elliott was eminent in the efficient establishment and operation of the base hospital, and in his cool judgment and courage in supervising first-aid stations of the firing line and removing the wounded. By his inspiring valor, steadfast perseverance, and selfless dedication to duty, Surgeon Elliott reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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Surgeon Cary D. Langhorne United States Navy

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty during engagement of Vera Cruz on 22 April 1914. Surgeon Langhorne carried a wounded man from the front of the Naval Academy while under a heavy fire. By his inspiring valor, steadfast perseverance, and selfless dedication to duty, Surgeon Langhorne reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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Hospital Apprentice First Class William Zuiderveld United States Navy

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty on 21 April 1914. While serving on board USS FLORIDA, Hospital Apprentice Zuiderveld showed extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession during the seizure of Vera Cruz, Mexico. By his courage, daring initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Hospital Apprentice Zuiderveld sustained and enhanced the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.