Matthew Arlington Batson
Matthew Arlington Batson | |
|---|---|
Matthew A. Batson | |
| Born | April 24, 1866 Anna, Illinois, US |
| Died | January 13, 1917 (aged 50) |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Branch | United States Army |
| Years of service | 1888–1902 |
| Rank | Major |
| Unit | 2nd Cavalry Regiment 4th Cavalry Regiment Batson's Macabebe Scouts |
| Battles / wars | Spanish–American War Philippine–American War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Matthew Arlington Batson (Anna, Illinois, US, 24 April 1866 – 13 January 1917) was a United States Army Officer who received the Medal of Honor for actions during the Philippine–American War. 1st Lieutenant Batson was awarded the medal for swimming the San Juan River under enemy fire. He was awarded his medal alongside Captain Hugh J. McGrath who performed the same feat. Batson is most noted, however, for creating the Philippine Scouts.