Background
Hoban was born September 11, 1872 in New York City, New York and after entering the navy was sent to fight in the Spanish–American War aboard the United States.S. Nashville as a coxswain.
Hoban was born September 11, 1872 in New York City, New York and after entering the navy was sent to fight in the Spanish–American War aboard the United States.S. Nashville as a coxswain.
On May 11, 1898 the Nashville was given the task of cutting the cable leading from Cienfuegos, Cuba. During the operation and facing heavy enemy fire, Hoban continued to perform his duties throughout this action.