David Dixon Porter-Arlington, VA
Posted by: 
Don.Morfe
N 38° 52.710 W 077° 04.278
18S E 320327 N 4305332
Philippine Insurrection Medal of Honor Recipient for action in Samar, Philippine Islands on November 17, 1901. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Section 2, Site 3479.
Waymark Code: WMY4ZB
Location: Virginia, United States
Date Posted: 04/22/2018
Views: 0
He was born on April 29, 1877 in Washington D.C. and died on February 25, 1944 in Philadelphia, PA. He attained the rank of Major General in the U.S. Marine Corps. His Medal of Honor information and citation is: PORTER, DAVID DIXON
• Rank and organization: Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
• Appointed from: District of Columbia
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. In command of the columns upon their uniting ashore in the Sohoton Region, Col. Porter (then Capt. ) 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 vines and 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 poisoned spears, pits, etc., Col. Porter led his men across the river, scaled the cliffs on the opposite side, and destroyed the camps there. He 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 post, and were never before penetrated by white troops. Col. Porter also rendered distinguished public service in the presence of the enemy at Quinapundan River, Samar, Philippine Islands, on 26 October 1901.
Armed Service: Marines
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