Serving as a Marine in the U.S. Marine Corps, Private Harry Westley Orndoff received the Medal of Honor for his actions between June 20 and 22, 1900 in China during the Boxer Rebellion. At the time he was serving with Capt. Newt H. Hall's Marine Detachment, U.S.S. Newark. Orndoff was 24 years old.
27 other service members also received the Medal of Honor for actions on the same day. The medal was presented on December 10, 1901.
Orndoff was born on November 8, 1875 in Sandusky, Erie County, Ohio. His Medal of Honor is credited to California. Orndoff died on July 14, 1938, at the age of 62. He is buried at Highland Park Cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio. Records also list him as Orndof, Harry Westley.
Orndoff is one of 59 Medal of Honor recipients from the Boxer Rebellion and one of 142 credited to California.
Official Medal of Honor citation
In action with the relief expedition of the Allied forces in China, 13, 20, 21, and 22 June 1900. During this period and in the presence of the enemy, Orndoff distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.
Citation text: U.S. Government, public domain.
Timeline
- November 8, 1875Born in Sandusky, Erie County, Ohio
- June 20 - 22, 1900Act of valor — ChinaAge 24. Capt. Newt H. Hall's Marine Detachment, U.S.S. Newark
- December 10, 1901Medal of Honor presented
- July 14, 1938DiedAge 62.
- Resting placeHighland Park CemeteryCleveland, Ohio
