David Camden de Leon

David Camden de Leon, the "fighting doctor," 1816–1872. Painting by Solomon Nunes Carvalho

David Camden de Leon or DeLeon (May 6, 1816 – September 2, 1872), known as "the fighting doctor", was born in Camden, South Carolina, and Rebecca Lopez de Leon. He entered the Army in 1838 as Assistant Surgeon and "served with distinction in the Seminole war". At the battle of Chapultepec he earned the sobriquet of "the Fighting Doctor," as on two occasions led a charge of cavalry after the officer commanding had been killed or wounded. For his distinguished services and for his gallantry in action he twice received the thanks of Congress. to New Mexico, where he had been stationed for several years, and where he owned property. He continued in practice there until his death. Leon, Kansas, was subsequently named after the Iowa town.