In the spring of 1898, the U.S.S. Marblehead sat off the coast of Cienfuegos, Cuba, tasked with a mission of critical tactical importance: severing the underwater telegraph cables that allowed the Spanish forces to communicate. Among the hand-picked crew of sailors and Marines who volunteered to man the small steam launches and sailing launches was Walter S. West, a young man from Bradford, New Hampshire.

On May 11, 1898, West and his comrades rowed within 100 feet of the shoreline, well within the reach of Spanish infantry entrenched on the beach and in a nearby lighthouse. For over three hours, the mission remained under a relentless barrage of heavy rifle fire. While some men worked to pull the heavy cables to the surface with grapnel hooks and hacksaws, West was required to maintain his position and provide cover or manage the boats under direct fire.

Despite the intensity of the engagement—which resulted in several casualties among the small group—West was noted for his extraordinary bravery and coolness under pressure. His refusal to falter during the mission ensured that the cables were successfully cut, effectively isolating the Spanish garrison. For these actions during the Spanish-American War, West was awarded the Medal of Honor.