Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
Hugh
Jocelyn
McGrath
KIA (Philippine Insurrection)
April 8, 1856

–

November 7, 1899

Cemetery:

Arlington National Cemetery

Hugh McGrath graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1880. Following his Medal of Honor action on July 26, 1899, he was wounded in action on October 8, and died one month later. Hugh McGrath was the first West Point Medal of Honor recipient to be Killed in Action.

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Cavalry)

    Regiment:

    4th Cavalry

    Action Date:

    July 26, 1899
    Date of Issue: April 29, 1902

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Captain (Cavalry) Hugh Jocelyn McGrath, United States Army, for most distinguished gallantry on 26 July 1899, while serving with 4th Cavalry, in action at Calamba, Luzon, Philippine Islands. Captain McGrath swam the San Juan River in the face of the enemy’s fire and drove him from his entrenchments.