Frank West (Medal of Honor)

Frank West (September 26, 1850 – August 26, 1923) was a United States Army colonel who was a recipient of the Medal of Honor for actions in fighting Indians at the Battle of Big Dry Wash, Arizona. West is an 1872 graduate of West Point.[1]

For other people named Frank West, see Frank West (disambiguation).
Frank West
Born(1850-09-26)September 26, 1850
Mohawk, Herkimer County, New York
DiedAugust 26, 1923(1923-08-26) (aged 72)
Mohawk, New York
Place of burial
Arlington National Cemetery
AllegianceUnited States of America
Service/branchUnited States Army
Years of service1872–1914
RankColonel
Unit6th Cavalry Regiment
Commands held2nd Cavalry Regiment
Battles/warsIndian Wars
*Apache Wars
*Battle of Big Dry Wash
Spanish–American War
Philippine–American War
AwardsMedal of Honor

Early life and the western frontier

West served in the 6th Cavalry Regiment on the western frontier.[2] He was awarded the Medal of Honor for rallying his men against a fortified position at Big Dry Wash, Arizona. Three other men, Second Lieutenant George H. Morgan, Second Lieutenant Thomas Cruse and First Sergeant Charles Taylor were also awarded Medals of Honor in this action. Morgan and Cruse are also Academy graduates.[3] West became Colonel of the 2nd Cavalry Regiment in October 1906, and was retired on his 64th birthday in 1914.

His wife was Rebecca Kenyon (1851–1912).[2]

Medal of Honor citation

West was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1892 for action at Big Dry Wash, Arizona, on 17 July 1882.

Citation: "Rallied his command and led it in the advance against the enemy's fortified position."[1]

References
 This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Army Center of Military History.
  1. "Medal of Honor recipients Indian Wars Period". United States Army Center of Military History. Retrieved 2009-04-12.
  2. "Frank West". Arlington National Cemetery. Retrieved 2009-04-17.
  3. "Frank West". Home of Heroes. Retrieved 2009-04-17.
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