Frederick Vallette McNair, Jr.

Captain, U.S. Navy

Medal of Honor Recipient

Occupation of Veracruz

Captain Frederick Vallette McNair, Jr. (13 March 1882 - 2 September 1962) was a U.S. Navy officer who received the U.S. military's highest award for valor, the Medal of Honor, for his heroic actions during the Occupation of Veracruz.

Frederick Vallette McNair, Jr. was born on 13 March 1882 in Maryland. He was a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy (Class of 1903) and the son of Rear Admiral Frederick V. McNair, Sr. (Class of 1857). He is the grandfather of tennis star Frederick V. McNair IV.

McNair rose to the rank of Captain.

Medal of Honor

Rank and organization: Lieutenant, U.S. Navy

Citation: For distinguished conduct in battle engagement of Vera Cruz, 22 April 1914. Lt. McNair 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.

Medals and Awards

Medal of Honor
Navy Cross

Death and Burial

Captain Frederick Vallette McNair, Jr. died on 2 September 1962. He is buried at the U.S. Naval Academy Cemetery in Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, and his grave can be located in Lot 406.