William H. Thompkins: The Heroic Journey of a Buffalo Soldier and Medal of Honor Recipient During the Spanish-American War

Meet William H Thompkins, a remarkable individual who exemplified courage and selflessness during the Spanish-American War. Born in Paterson, New Jersey, Thompkins served as a member of the Buffalo Soldiers, the African American 10th Cavalry. His actions during a daring rescue mission earned him the prestigious Medal of Honor and cemented his place in history. This article delves into Thompkins’s life and heroic exploits, shedding light on his remarkable journey during the Spanish-American War.

Early Life and Military Service

Born on October 3, 1872, Thompkins grew up in Newark, New Jersey, and later enlisted in the U.S. Army in his birthplace, Paterson. He became a member of Troop M of the 10th Cavalry, known as the Buffalo Soldiers, an esteemed unit renowned for their bravery and resilience.

During the Spanish-American War, the U.S. military collaborated with Cuban revolutionaries to combat Spanish forces in Cuba. The mission was to smuggle guns, supplies, and Cuban soldiers to aid the revolutionaries in their quest for independence. Thompkins found himself in the midst of this conflict, serving with valor and determination alongside his fellow soldiers.

The Perilous Expedition and Heroic Rescue

In June 1898, an ambitious expedition was organized to provide support to Cuban revolutionaries. This included the gunboat USS Peoria, the steamship Fanita, and the U.S. Army Transport Florida, which set sail from Key West, Florida.

However, they encountered numerous challenges as the expedition approached the Cuban coast near Tayabacoa on June 30. The shoreline and outpost initially appeared abandoned, giving the impression that the landing would proceed smoothly. A small landing party consisting of American and Cuban troops aboard the USS Peoria was dispatched to conduct reconnaissance on the supposed abandoned outpost.

To their shock and dismay, as the whaleboats landed on the sandy shore, they were suddenly ambushed by a well-entrenched Spanish force. Dozens of Spanish soldiers, along with artillery, unleashed a relentless storm of rifle and artillery fire upon the unsuspecting landing party. The attack was swift and devastating.

The boats carrying the American and Cuban troops were destroyed in the chaos, leaving the surviving soldiers stranded and wounded on the hostile Cuban shoreline. The situation became dire as the Spanish forces continued their relentless assault, making it nearly impossible for the stranded troops to escape or receive immediate assistance.

Over several hours, the Spanish defense repulsed four attempts by American forces to rescue their stranded comrades. The ferocity of the Spanish soldiers and their well-fortified positions made it incredibly dangerous and challenging. Despite the failed rescue attempts, the determination to save their fellow soldiers did not waver.

Then, as nightfall descended upon the area, Thompkins and his comrades decided to make one final daring effort to rescue their wounded comrades. With darkness as their ally, they rowed a small boat ashore, navigating through the treacherous waters while facing heavy enemy fire. Their courage and determination propelled them forward, disregarding their own safety for the sake of their fellow soldiers.

The brave rescue party successfully reached the wounded troops, retrieving the bodies of both American and Cuban soldiers. With great care and haste, they returned to the safety of their transport ship, avoiding further losses despite the continued enemy fire.

The extraordinary valor demonstrated Thompkins’s unwavering commitment to his comrades-in-arms. Together with his fellow soldiers, their selfless act of courage saved lives in the face of overwhelming adversity, showcasing the true spirit of heroism that exists within the ranks of the Buffalo Soldiers.

Recognition and Medal of Honor

Below is the Medal of Honor citation of William H Thompkins, which he received alongside three other valiant privates—Privates George H. Wanton, Fitz Lee, and Dennis Bell—who went above and beyond their call of duty.

After a force had succeeded in landing and had been compelled to withdraw to the boats, leaving a number of killed and wounded ashore, [Thompkins] voluntarily went ashore in the face of the enemy and aided in the rescue of his wounded comrades who would otherwise have fallen into the hands of the enemy. This, after several previous attempts, had been frustrated.

Thompkins’ story is not only one of personal heroism but also a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Buffalo Soldiers. Despite facing racism and adversity, these brave soldiers carried their unit’s name with pride and dignity. Their courage on the front lines challenged societal norms and left an enduring impact on American culture.

Following his military service, little is documented about Thompkins’ life. Sadly, he passed away in San Francisco at age 43 during the early autumn of 1916. As a testament to his service and sacrifice, he was laid to rest at the San Francisco National Cemetery in the prestigious Presidio, forever memorialized among his fellow soldiers.