This cache is one in a series placed by the Military Association of GeoCachers - Northern Virginia Chapter (MAGC-NoVA) to honor recipients of the Congressional Medal Honor (CMOH). The CMOH is the highest award that a member of the U.S. military can receive. For more information on the medal, go to this link: http://www.cmohs.org/medal-history.php.
Best Theme/Series!
This cache honors Marine Corps Major General Smedley D. Butler.
Smedley Darlington Butler (July 30, 1881 – June 21, 1940) was a United States Marine Corps Major General, the highest rank authorized at that time, and at the time of his death the most decorated Marine in U.S. history. During his 34-year career as a Marine, he participated in military actions in the Philippines, China, in Central America and the Caribbean during the Banana Wars, and France in World War I.
By the end of his career, Butler had received 16 medals, five for heroism. He is one of 19 men to receive the Medal of Honor twice, one of three to be awarded both the Marine Corps Brevet Medal (along with Wendell Neville and David Porter) and the Medal of Honor, and the only Marine to be awarded the Brevet Medal and two Medals of Honor, all for separate actions.
MEDAL OF HONOR CITATION:
As Commanding Officer of detachments from the 5th, 13th, 23d Companies and the Marine and sailor detachment from the U.S.S. Connecticut, Maj. Butler led the attack on Fort Riviere, Haiti, 17 November 1915. Following a concentrated drive, several different detachments of Marines gradually closed in on the old French bastion fort in an effort to cut off all avenues of retreat for the Caco bandits. Reaching the fort on the southern side where there was a small opening in the wall, Maj. Butler gave the signal to attack and Marines from the 15th Company poured through the breach, engaged the Cacos in hand-to-hand combat, took the bastion and crushed the Caco resistance. Throughout this perilous action, Maj. Butler was conspicuous for his bravery and forceful leadership. FIRST AWARD For distinguished conduct in battle, engagement of Vera Cruz, 22 April 1914. Maj. Butler was eminent and conspicuous in command of his battalion. He exhibited courage and skill in leading his men through the action of the 22d and in the final occupation of the city.
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smedley_Butler)
The cache is along a bike/walking path. The difficulty reflects the stealth required. Neighborhood parking is available along with a nearby shopping center.