Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Edward Orrick McDonnell, United States Navy, for distinguished and heroic service as a Pilot attached to U.S. Naval Aviation Forces abroad. Lieutenant Commander McDonnell took an important and valuable part in organizing U. S. Northern Bombing Group. He made several extremely hazardous flights over the Alps in machines which were known to be structurally imperfect.

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Ensign

    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 Ensign Edward Orrick McDonnell, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in battle during the engagements of Vera Cruz, Mexico, 21 and 22 April 1914. Posted on the roof of the Terminal Hotel and landing, Ensign McDonnell established a signal station there day and night, maintaining communication between troops and ships. At this exposed post he was continually under fire. One man was killed and three wounded at his side during the two days’ fighting. He showed extraordinary heroism and striking courage and maintained his station in the highest degree of efficiency. All signals got through, largely due to his heroic devotion to duty.