Rough Rider Medal
By Andrew Lipps
This medal, often thought to be a reunion medal, was struck by Theodore
Roosevelt for members of the First U. S. Volunteer Cavalry ("Rough
Riders") on the unit's return to the U.S. after serving in Cuba. Roosevelt
notes the medal in his book, The Rough Riders referring to it as
"the medal I gave to my men." It is a two piece bronze medal with a T pin
top bar titled "1ST U.S. VOL. CAV." The 5th Corps badge and letters
"RR" appear in the center of the planchet, which notes the battles and
campaigns of the unit.
Return to Main Page