Spanish American War
The Spanish American War between Spain and the United States began in 1898 after the sinking of the American battleship Maine. The Navy was ready and began a blockade of Cuba soon after President McKinley signed the joint resolution on April 20, 1898. The Army, made radical changes to mobilize and grow their ranks from 28,000 to 50,000 troops. Through volunteers and the mobilization of state National Guard units they grew to 220,000 men.
Fireman 2nd Class Harry E. Burns
U.S.S. Baltimore
Fireman 2nd Class Harry E. Burns, a charter member of the Capitol Heights Volunteer Fire Department, served in the U.S. Navy as a Fireman 2nd Class aboard the U.S.S. Baltimore. During the Spanish-American War, the U.S.S. Baltimore operated in Manila Bay and was second in line behind the U.S.S. Olympia. It entered Manila Bay on May 1, 1898 and destroyed the Spanish fleet. They stayed in Asiatic Squadron in East Asia protecting american interests until 1900. The crew was awarded the Manila Bay Medal for their victorious battle against the Spanish fleet.
Private Maurice Rackey
7th U.S. Cavalry Regiment, G Company
Private Maurice Rackey was a charter member of the Capitol Heights Volunteer Fire Department. Private Rackey served in G Company of the 7th U.S. Cavalry. The regiment served in the southwest U.S. prior to their depart for Cuba in 1899. The 7th Cavalry was tasked with maintaining security and scouting on the island of Cuba until their departure in 1902.
Henry J. Schaefer
Henry J. Schaefer was a charter member of the Capitol Heights Volunteer Fire Department. We have found census records indicating that Mr. Schaefer was a veteran of the Spanish American War. We have uncovered some of his family history and are still researching his military service at this time. We will post updates as they become available.
Private George R. Tudge
5th U.S. Cavalry (CAU Det)
Private George R. Tudge was a charter member of the Capitol Heights Volunteer Fire Department. He served in the 5th Regiment of the U.S. Cavalry (CAU Det). During the Spanish-American War, Private Tudge served both in Cuba and Puerto Rico. It is believed that at some point in the war, the 5th Regiment was combined with Colonel Theodore Roosevelt's Rough Riders. George died on October 28, 1953 and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Section 33, Site 7667.
William F. Williamson
4th Artillery, A Company, Musician Battery
William F. Williamson was a charter member of the Capitol Heights Volunteer Fire Department. He served as a musician in A Company of the 4th Artillery. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Section 18, Site 1746-F-1.
