Hiram Iddings Bearss-Peru, IN
Posted by: Groundspeak Regular Member Don.Morfe
N 40° 45.612 W 086° 04.698
16T E 577797 N 4512546
Philippine Insurrection Medal of Honor Recipient for action Samar, Philippine Islands on November 17, 1901. He attained the rank of Brigadier General in the U.S. Marine Corps. He is buried in Bearrs Cemetery (Mount Hope Cemetery) in Block 6.
Waymark Code: WMY3Q6
Location: Indiana, United States
Date Posted: 04/14/2018
Published By:Groundspeak Premium Member iconions
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He was born on April 13, 1875 in Peru, IN and died on August 26, 1938 in Peru, IN. His Medal of Honor information and citation is: BEARSS, HIRAM IDDINGS
• Rank and organization: Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
• Appointed from: Indiana
• Other Navy award: Distinguished Service Medal
Citation: For extraordinary heroism and eminent and conspicuous conduct in battle at the junction of the Cadacan and Sohoton Rivers, Samar, Philippine Islands, 17 November 1901. Col. Bearss (then Capt.), second in command of the columns upon their uniting ashore in the Sohoton River region, made a surprise attack on the fortified cliffs and completely routed the enemy, killing 30 and capturing and destroying the powder magazine, 40 lantacas (guns), rice, food and cuartels. Due to his courage, intelligence, discrimination and zeal, he successfully led his men up the cliffs by means of bamboo ladders to a height of 200 feet. The cliffs were of soft stone of volcanic origin, in the nature of pumice, and were honeycombed with caves. Tons of rocks were suspended in platforms held in position by vine cables (known as bejuco) in readiness to be precipitated upon people below. After driving the insurgents from their position which was almost impregnable, being covered with numerous trails lined with poison spears, pits, etc., he led his men across the river, scaled the cliffs on the opposite side, and destroyed the camps there. Col. Bearss and the men under his command overcame incredible difficulties and dangers in destroying positions which, according to reports from old prisoners, had taken 3 years to perfect, were held as a final rallying point, and were never before penetrated by white troops. Col. Bearss also rendered distinguished public service in the presence of the enemy at Quinapundan River, Samar, Philippine Islands, on 19 January 1902.
Armed Service: Marines

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Don.Morfe visited Hiram Iddings Bearss-Peru, IN 12/14/2021 Don.Morfe visited it