Harry L. MacNeal

He braved enemy fire as his warship fought off Santiago Bay.

Harry Lewis MacNeal was born on March 22, 1875, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He enlisted in Philadelphia on November 16, 1896, and served as a private in the United States Marine Corps aboard USS Brooklyn during the Spanish-American War.

On July 3, 1898, Brooklyn fought in the Battle of Santiago de Cuba. MacNeal's Medal of Honor citation recognized his gallantry throughout the action while facing enemy fire. The award commemorated his courage during the naval battle.

MacNeal received the Medal of Honor on August 9, 1899, and attained corporal during his military service. He was discharged on December 26, 1901, then reenlisted. Marine Corps records state that he deserted on February 15, 1906. He died on March 13, 1950, and is buried at East Ridge Lawn Cemetery in New Jersey. His award preserves the memory of a Marine's distinguished conduct aboard a warship in combat.

Medal of Honor Citation

On board the U.S.S. Brooklyn during action at the Battle of Santiago de Cuba, 3 July 1898. Braving the fire of the enemy, MacNeal displayed gallantry throughout this action.