Joseph John Franklin


Joseph John Franklin was a United States Marine who received the Medal of Honor during the Spanish–American War.

Biography

Franklin was born on June 18, 1870 in Buffalo, New York. He joined the Marine Corps from Boston in January 1896, and was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions at the Battle of Cienfuegos. He retired with the rank of Sergeant Major in August 1929.
Franklin died on April 28, 1940, and is buried in Cypress Hills Cemetery, Brooklyn, New York. His grave can be found in the laurel green section, block 1, grave 312

Medal of Honor citation

Rank and organization: Private, U.S. Marine Corps. Born: 18 June 1870, Buffalo, N.Y. Accredited to: New York. G.O. No.: 521, 7 July 1899.
Citation:
On board the U.S.S. Nashville during the operation of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Franklin set an example of extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.