The only President of the United States to have won the Congressional Medal of Honor as well as the Nobel Peace Prize.
On the first of July, 1898 Lt. Col. Theodore Roosevelt demonstrated conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. On July 1, 1898 near Santiago de Cuba, while leading a charge up San Juan Hill, Lieutenant Colonel Roosevelt, in total disregard for his own safety, and accompanied by only four or five men, led a desperate and gallant charge up San Juan Hill, encouraging his troops to continue the assault through withering enemy fire over open countryside.
Facing the enemy’s heavy fire, Lt. Col. Roosevelt displayed extraordinary bravery throughout the charge, and was the first to reach the enemy trenches, where he quickly killed one of the enemies with his pistol allowing his men to continue the assault.
His leadership and valor turned the tide in the Battle of San Juan Hill.
His Medal of Honor citation cites t. Col. Roosevelt’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.