The Battle of Manila Bay Medal, commonly referred to as the Dewey Medal, stands as a timeless tribute to the valor and heroism displayed by the officers and men of the Asiatic Squadron during the historic Battle of Manila Bay on May 1, 1898. This distinguished medal, authorized by Congress just one month after the battle, holds the distinction of being the oldest Navy campaign medal and is renowned for its unique design and symbolism.
Crafted by renowned sculptor Daniel C. French and struck by Tiffany & Co., the Dewey Medal features an intricate design that encapsulates the spirit of the naval engagement. On the obverse side of the medal, a raised image profile bust of Commodore George Dewey takes center stage, flanked by the text "The gift of the people of the United States to the officers and men of the Asiatic Squadron under the command of Commodore George Dewey." Below Dewey's bust, the inscription "DC French 1896" pays homage to the artist responsible for the medal's design.
Turning to the reverse side, a compelling scene unfolds—a bare-chested sailor sits atop a gun barrel, cradling a furled flag in his lap, a poignant symbol of victory and sacrifice. Surrounding this striking image, the text reads "In memory of the Victory of Manila Bay on May 1, 1898," immortalizing the pivotal moment in naval history. Below the sailor, a tablet bearing the inscription "USS Olympia" serves as a testament to the flagship's pivotal role in the battle. Notably, the rim of the medal bears the name "Ah Foy, Landsman," a poignant reminder of the individual sailors who served with distinction.
Adding to its distinction, the Battle of Manila Bay Medal is one of only two medals to feature the recipient's name engraved on the rim, a rare honor shared only with the Sampson Medal. This personal touch underscores the significance of each recipient's contribution to the historic victory.
The medal is elegantly suspended from a ribbon bar, which itself bears symbolic imagery. An eagle with a sprig of laurel and the hilt of a sword adorns the ribbon, representing courage, victory, and sacrifice. The ribbon's design consists of two smaller blue stripes flanking a large yellow stripe, a fitting tribute to the bravery and resolve of the sailors who served in the Asiatic Squadron.
In conclusion, the Battle of Manila Bay Medal stands as a timeless testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in one of the most consequential naval battles in American history. Its distinctive design and rich symbolism serve as a lasting reminder of the courage and valor displayed by the officers and men of the Asiatic Squadron on that fateful day in May 1898.
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