b. 22/12/1876 Evansville, Indiana. d. 12/01/1940 San Diego, California.
DATE OF MOH ACTION: 21-22/04/1915 Veracruz, Mexico.
Mexican Campaign Medal of Honor Recipient. Served as a Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy during the 1914 Vera Cruz, Mexico Campaign. He was awarded the CMOH for his bravery on April 21 and 22, 1914. His citation reads “For distinguished conduct in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz. In command of the 1st Seaman Regiment, Lt. Cmdr. Buchanan was in both days’ fighting and almost continually under fire from soon after landing, about noon of the 21st, until we were in possession of the city, about noon ofthe 22nd. His duties required him to be at points of great danger in directing his officers and men, and he exhibited conspicuous courage, coolness, and skill in his conduct of the fighting. Upon his courage and skill depended, in great measure, success or Failure. His responsibilities were great, and he met them in a manner worthy of commendation”. His Medal was issued on December 4, 1915. Lt. Commander Buchanan was also awarded the Navy Cross during his service.
MOH CITATION:
For distinguished conduct in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz, 21 and 22 April 1914. In command of the 1st Seaman Regiment, Lt. Cmdr. Buchanan was in both days’ fighting and almost continually under fire from soon after landing, about noon of the 21st, until we were in possession of the city, about noon of the 22d. His duties required him to be at points of great danger in directing his officers and men, and he exhibited conspicuous courage, coolness, and skill in his conduct of the fighting. Upon his courage and skill depended, in great measure, success or Failure. His responsibilities were great, and he met them in a manner worthy of commendation.
BURIAL LOCATION: ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY, ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA.
SECTION 4, GRAVE 5845.
LOCATION OF MEDAL: FAMILY.