Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
Franz
Anton
Itrich
November 26, 1853

–

June 11, 1933

Cemetery:

San Francisco National Cemetery

Franz Itrich was the first American to perform a Medal of Honor action during the Spanish-American War.

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Chief Carpenter’s Mate

    Division:

    U.S.S. Petrel

    Action Date:

    May 1, 1898
    War Department, General Orders No. 13, December 5, 1900

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Chief Carpenter’s Mate Franz Anton Itrich, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in action on board the U.S.S. Petrel, Manila, Philippine Islands, 1 May 1898. Serving in the presence of the enemy, Chief Carpenter’s Mate Itrich displayed heroism during the action.