The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Coxswain Nicholas Erickson, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action on board the U.S.S. Marblehead during the operation of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Coxswain Erickson set an example of extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.