Serving as a Marine in the U.S. Marine Corps, Private Louis Rene Gaiennie received the Medal of Honor for his actions between July 21 and August 17, 1900 in Peking, China during the Boxer Rebellion. At the time he was serving with Capt. Newt H. Hall's Marine Detachment, U.S.S. Newark. Gaiennie was 22 years old.
12 other service members also received the Medal of Honor for actions on the same day. The medal was presented on December 11, 1901.
Gaiennie was born on June 9, 1878 in St. Louis, St. Louis County, Missouri. Gaiennie died on November 25, 1942, at the age of 64. He is buried at Calvary Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri. His medal is held by Soldier's Memorial, St. Louis, MO.
Gaiennie is one of 59 Medal of Honor recipients from the Boxer Rebellion and one of 78 credited to Missouri.
Official Medal of Honor citation
In the presence of the enemy during the action at Peking, China, 21 July to 17 August 1900, Gaiennie distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.
Citation text: U.S. Government, public domain.
Timeline
- June 9, 1878Born in St. Louis, St. Louis County, Missouri
- July 21 - August 17, 1900Act of valor — Peking, ChinaAge 22. Capt. Newt H. Hall's Marine Detachment, U.S.S. Newark
- December 11, 1901Medal of Honor presented
- November 25, 1942DiedAge 64.
- Resting placeCalvary CemeterySt. Louis, Missouri
