William H. Thompkins

William H. Thompkins was a Buffalo Soldier in the United States Army who served during the late 19th century. He is best known for his heroic actions during the Spanish–American War, which earned him the nation's highest military decoration for valor.

On June 30, 1898, Thompkins participated in a daring rescue operation at Tayabacoa, Cuba. Alongside three fellow Buffalo Soldiers, he volunteered to go ashore in the face of heavy enemy fire to rescue a force of wounded U.S. and Cuban comrades who were trapped on the beach.

For their extreme bravery under fire, Thompkins and his three companions were awarded the Medal of Honor. They were the last African American servicemen to be presented with this prestigious decoration for more than half a century, cementing their place in American military history.