Spanish-American War Medal of Honor: Fighting Frederick Funston

Meet Fighting Fred Funston, a man whose path from journalist to war hero defied expectations and shaped history. Discover the audacious courage and enduring legacy that make his story a true testament to the indomitable spirit of a hero.

A Spirited Beginning

Frederick Funston’s journey to heroism began long before the Spanish-American War. Born on November 9, 1865, in New Carlisle, Ohio, Funston exhibited an adventurous spirit from a young age. His early years were marked by curiosity, a thirst for knowledge, and an innate desire to challenge himself. This thirst for adventure led him to explore the untamed landscapes of the American West, where he developed survival skills that would serve him well in the years to come.

Despite his unassuming stature – standing at just 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing a mere 120 pounds – Funston defied expectations and embarked on a journey that would prove his mettle in ways unimaginable. Rejected from the United States Military Academy in 1886 due to his size, Funston’s determination remained unwavering. After graduating from Iola High School that same year, he forged ahead, enrolling at the University of Kansas. During his time there, he not only pursued academic excellence but also formed lasting bonds, joining the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and cultivating a friendship with none other than the future Pulitzer Prize-winning writer William Allen White. The twists of fate then led him from the tracks of the Santa Fe Railroad, where he worked as a trainman, to the bustling world of journalism in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1890. Through these seemingly disparate experiences, Funston honed his resilience, resourcefulness, and unwavering spirit – qualities that would shape his path to becoming a true American hero.

(Image source: Kansas Historical Society, Wikimedia Commons)

Exploration, Revolution, and Duty: Funston’s Transformative Path

Funston’s journey took a fascinating turn when he transitioned from the world of journalism to scientific exploration, particularly in the realm of botany. Venturing into the unknown, he embarked on a surveying expedition through the rugged landscapes of Death Valley, California, an experience that would undoubtedly shape his tenacity and thirst for discovery. Yet, his subsequent assignment with the United States Department of Agriculture in the vast wilderness of Alaska revealed his unyielding dedication to expanding his horizons. However, it was not long before his insatiable spirit led him down another path. Stirred by the impassioned words of Gen. Daniel E. Sickles, Funston felt a calling deep within his heart. He joined the Cuban Revolutionary Army in 1896, their noble fight for independence from Spain igniting a fire within him.

Despite his fervor, adversity struck in the form of malaria, causing his weight to plummet to a worrisome 95 pounds. The Cubans granted him a respite, acknowledging the toll his dedication had taken. Upon returning to his homeland, Funston’s unwavering commitment again caught fate’s attention. Commissioned as a colonel of the 20th Kansas Infantry Regiment in the United States Army at the dawn of the Spanish-American War, he stood ready to answer the call of duty. During the chaotic time of the war, Funston met Eda Blankart at a patriotic event, and they quickly fell in love. They got married, but soon after, things got messy, and just within a mere fortnight of their union, Funston had to say goodbye to his new wife to go on a mission that would take him to distant shores.

The Crucible of War

Landing in the Philippines as part of the American forces, Funston found himself thrust into the crucible of the Philippine-American War, a continuation of the broader Spanish-American conflict. The tropical terrain and challenging conditions mirrored the harshness he had faced in his earlier endeavors, but his resilience remained unbroken. Funston’s capacity to transform adversity into opportunity, a thread woven throughout his life, now propelled him forward on the battlefield. His experiences as a journalist, explorer, and even a soldier in the Cuban Revolutionary Army converged to forge an unbreakable spirit—one that would prove instrumental in the conflict ahead.

During this time, Funston experienced his defining moment, bringing forth his audacious and daring nature. In a move that would go down in history as a masterpiece of strategy and execution, Funston orchestrated the capture of Emilio Aguinaldo, the revolutionary leader of the Philippine forces.

soldiers-in-action-1899 — American forces in action in the Philippines circa 1899 (Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

The daring operation involved a covert mission to infiltrate enemy lines and extract Aguinaldo from his heavily guarded stronghold. Funston’s meticulous planning, combined with his ability to inspire unwavering loyalty from his troops, led to the successful apprehension of Aguinaldo, who was also serving as the first President of the Philippines. The audacity of the operation showcased Funston’s fearless character and willingness to take calculated risks for the greater good, earning him the moniker “Fighting Fred Funston” or “Fearless Freddie.”

A Medal of Honor’s Embrace and Legacy

Funston’s audacious capture of Aguinaldo did not go unnoticed. His exceptional leadership, strategic brilliance, and personal courage were acknowledged when he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor bestowed by the United States. The medal encapsulated Funston’s unwavering dedication to duty and his embodiment of the core values that make a hero – sacrifice, determination, and an unshakable commitment to the well-being of his fellow soldiers and his country. Below is his Medal of Honor citation.

“Crossed the river on a raft and by his skill and daring enabled the general commanding to carry the enemy’s entrenched position on the north bank of the river and to drive him with great loss from the important strategic position of Calumpit.”

His legacy extended far beyond his exploits on the battlefield. Funston became a symbol of courage and inspiration for generations of Americans. His audacious capture of Aguinaldo solidified his place in history as a strategic genius and a selfless leader who put the lives of his men before his own.

Apart from his valor overseas, Funston also made an impact in stateside, particularly during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Following the devastating magnitude 7.9 quake, he commanded the Presidio, declared martial law, directed fire-containment efforts, and issued orders to shoot looters, leading to praise and criticism from local officials and historians.

Funston remained active in the Army, participating in several more campaigns, including the two-year conflict in Mexico and the Bandit War in Texas, where he was promoted to Major General. In the lead-up to World War I, President Woodrow Wilson considered Funston to lead any potential American Expeditionary Force. However, his unwavering dedication to duty took a toll on his health. After battling indigestion, he suffered a fatal heart attack in San Antonio, Texas. He was 51.

Funston’s Influence on Modern Military Strategy

Furthermore, Funston’s contributions extended beyond his time, influencing modern military strategy and tactics. His innovative thinking and ability to adapt to dynamic situations set a precedent for future generations of military leaders. His approach to unconventional warfare and strategic planning continues to inspire contemporary military thinkers, who draw upon his experiences to navigate the complex challenges of the modern world.

headstone — (Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

Frederick Funston’s journey from a curious young boy to a Medal of Honor recipient is a testament to the power of determination, bravery, and leadership. His actions during the Spanish-American War and the Philippine-American War epitomize the ideals of selflessness and sacrifice that define a true hero.