Karl Thomas

Facing hostile fire during the Allied expedition into China.

Karl Thomas was born on 17 March 1871 in Germany. He served as a coxswain in the United States Navy aboard USS Newark.

Thomas took part in action with the Allied relief expedition in China during June 1900. His meritorious conduct in the presence of the enemy earned the Medal of Honor. The citation recognizes his service over several days without specifying an individual tactical action.

Thomas died on 18 July 1900 at a field hospital in Taku, China. He is buried in San Francisco National Cemetery in California. His medal is held by the Naval Historical Center at the Washington Navy Yard.

Medal of Honor citation

In action with the relief expedition of the Allied forces in China, 13, 20, 21, and 22 June 1900. During this period and in the presence of the enemy, Thomas distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.