United States Naval Academy Photo

His wife, Mary Goodwin Buchanan (January 24,1876-December 31, 1952, is buried with him in Section 4 of Arlington National Cemetery.

Rank and organization: Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy. Born: 22 December 1876, Evansville, Indiana. Accredited to: Indiana. G.O. No.: 177, 4 December 1915. Other Navy award: Navy Cross.

Citation:

For distinguished conduct in battle, engagements of Vera Cruz, 21 and 22 April 1914. In command of the 1st Seaman Regiment, Lieutenant Commander Buchanan was in both days' fighting and almost continually under fire from soon after landing, about noon of the 21st, until we were in possession of the city, about noon of the 22d. His duties required him to be at points of great danger in directing his officers and men, and he exhibited conspicuous courage, coolness, and skill in his conduct of the fighting. Upon his courage and skill depended, in great measure, success or Failure. His responsibilities were great, and he met them in a manner worthy of commendation.

Citation:

The Navy Cross is awarded to Commander Allen Buchanan, U.S. Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession as commanding officer of the U.S.S. Downes, engaged in the important, exacting and hazardous duty of patrolling the waters infested with enemy submarines and mines, in escorting and protecting vitally important convoys of troops and supplies through these waters, and in offensive and defensive action, vigorously and unremittingly prosecuted against all forms of enemy naval activity.

BUCHANAN, ALLAN
Captain, United States Navy
DATE OF DEATH: 01/12/1940
BURIED AT: SECTION 9  SITE 5845
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

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