Medal of Honor: Frank Monroe Upton – World War I Era – April 17, 1918
The ocean around the wreck was littered with exploding powder boxes and burning debris. He jumped into that deadly water to reach a man who had no strength left.
April 29, 2026
Name: Frank Monroe Upton
Rank: Quartermaster
Branch: U.S. Navy
Era: World War I
Unit: USS Stewart
Date of Action: April 17, 1918
Location: At sea following the explosion of Florence H
Summary of Action
On 17 April 1918, Quartermaster Frank Monroe Upton distinguished himself following the internal explosion of the vessel Florence H.
The blast left the sea covered with wreckage and floating boxes of smokeless powder.
Those powder boxes were repeatedly exploding, making the water itself a battlefield of fire and concussion.
Amid the debris, a survivor was trapped.
The exhausted man was unable to help himself and was surrounded by the exploding powder cases.
Knowing the danger and understanding that every moment mattered, Upton acted without hesitation.
From USS Stewart, he plunged into the hazardous water and swam toward the stranded survivor.
Despite the continuing explosions around him, he risked his life to save another.
His courage, selflessness, and devotion to duty reflected the highest traditions of the United States Navy.
Medal of Honor Citation
UPTON, FRANK MONROE
