Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
Allen
Buchanan
December 22, 1876

–

January 12, 1940

Cemetery:

Arlington National Cemetery

Allen Buchanan graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1899. He retired as a Captain in the U.S. Navy.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Downes

    Action Date:

    World War I

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Allen Buchanan, United States Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. DOWNES, engaged in the important, exacting and hazardous duty of patrolling the waters infested with enemy submarines and mines, in escorting and protecting vitally important convoys of troops and supplies through these waters, and in offensive and defensive action, vigorously and unremittingly prosecuted against all forms of enemy naval activity during World War I.

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Regiment:

    1st Seaman Regiment (Bluejackets)

    Action Date:

    April 21 – 22, 1914
    War Department, General Orders No. 177 (December 4, 1915)

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Lieutenant Commander Allen Buchanan, United States Navy, for distinguished conduct in battle during the engagements of Vera Cruz, Mexico, 21 and 22 April 1914. In command of the 1st Seaman Regiment, Lieutenant Commander Buchanan was in both days’ fighting and almost continually under fire from soon after landing, about noon of the 21st, until we were in possession of the city, about noon of the 22d. His duties required him to be at points of great danger in directing his officers and men, and he exhibited conspicuous courage, coolness, and skill in his conduct of the fighting. Upon his courage and skill depended, in great measure, success or Failure. His responsibilities were great, and he met them in a manner worthy of commendation.