Herbert L. Foss

Cutting a communications cable under Cuban fire

Herbert Louis Foss received the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Spanish-American War. Born in Belfast, Maine, on October 12, 1871, he served as a U.S. Navy seaman aboard USS Marblehead.

On May 11, 1898, Foss took part in the operation to cut the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba. The sailors worked under heavy enemy fire. His official citation recognized the example of courage and composure he set throughout the action.

Foss received his Medal of Honor during his lifetime. He died on September 1, 1937, and was buried in Forest Hill Cemetery in Massachusetts. His award commemorates his conduct during a dangerous naval mission against Cuba’s communications infrastructure.

Official Medal of Honor citation

On board the U.S.S. Marblehead during the operation of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Foss set an example of extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.