Wilkinson, Theodore Stark, Jr., VADM

Theodore Wilkinson was only an Ensign when he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions serving aboard the USS Florida (BB-36) in Veracruz, Mexico.

As a Lieutenant, he was recognized for a few of his creations while stationed at the Bureau of Ordnance. He is credited with creating a noxious gas filler for shells that would serve as a smoke screen, the successful design of depth charges, and the creation of the firing mechanism for the Mark VI mine.

VADM Wilkinson died in a ferry accident. He was able to save his wife, but he himself drowned.

Medal of Honor
Service: Navy
Division: U.S.S. Florida
General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 177 (December 4, 1915)
Citation: The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Ensign Theodore Stark Wilkinson, Jr., United States Navy;

"for distinguished conduct in battle during the engagements of Vera Cruz, Mexico, 21 and 22 April 1914, on board the U.S.S. FLORIDA. Ensign Wilkinson was in both days' fighting at the head of his company and was eminent and conspicuous in his conduct, leading his men with skill and courage."

In 1952, the destroyer leader USS Wilkinson (DL-5) was named in his honor.