George McCall Courts

He carried urgent orders through enemy fire in an open boat.

George McCall Courts was born on February 16, 1888, in Washington, D.C. He served in the United States Navy and was a lieutenant, junior grade, during the seizure of Veracruz, Mexico.

During the fighting of April 21 and 22, 1914, Courts drew on knowledge developed through earlier duty in Mexico. He twice volunteered to carry important orders to USS Chester, crossing the zone of fire in an open boat while the ship was under severe attack. His Medal of Honor citation recognized both his preparation and his courage in performing this duty.

Courts received the Medal of Honor and later attained commander. He died on August 1, 1932, in Newport, Rhode Island, and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. His award commemorates the delivery of essential orders despite direct exposure to enemy fire.

Medal of Honor Citation

For distinguished conduct in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz, 21-22 April 1914. Under fire, Lt. (j.g.) Courts was eminent and conspicuous in the performance of his duties. He had well qualified himself by thorough study during his years of duty in Mexico to deal with the conditions of this engagement, and his services were of great value. He twice volunteered and passed in an open boat through the zone of fire to convey important orders to the Chester, then under a severe fire.