Cape’s only Medal of Honor recipient honored

http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2015/10/24/cape-only-medal-honor-recipient-honored/3GCMFq56og0bbHKBHghr4M/story.html



Massachusetts Maritime Academy Regimental Honor Guard Sean Mahoney and William Baker (right), a descendent of Benjamin Franklin Baker, stood near the monument.

Cape’s only Medal of Honor recipient honored
By Eric Bosco Globe Correspondent October 24, 2015

DENNIS — More than a hundred years after he served in a critical battle of the Spanish-American War and earned the nation’s highest military honor, Dennis native Benjamin Franklin Baker was recognized with the dedication of a memorial Saturday morning.

Baker is the only Cape Cod resident to receive the Medal of Honor, but until Saturday, the only monument that acknowledged the distinction was his gravestone.

Bill Baker, a retired Navy lieutenant commander from Atlanta, placed a wreath at the foot of the monument where his ancestor’s name is engraved.

“My father knew about him, and it got me really interested in tracing his history. I was really glad when the historical commission contacted me about doing this,” Baker said.

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http://www.cmohs.org/recipient-detail/2085/baker-benjamin-f.php

Citation

On board the U.S.S. Nashville during the cutting of the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba, 11 May 1898. Facing the heavy fire of the enemy, Baker set an example of extraordinary bravery and coolness throughout this action.