United States Marine Corps General. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy and was commissioned a Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps on July 1, 1884. In the Spanish American War, he served on the cruiser USS Yankee, taking part in the bombardment of Santiago, Cuba. Advancing quickly in rank, he performed duties as Commanding Officer, First Brigade, Post Quartermaster and Commanding Officer of the First Regiment, Olongapo, Philippine Islands. On May 23, 1911, he was promoted to Colonel and returned to the United States in May 1912. In 1914, the 4th Regiment was reactivated and Pendleton was ordered to command this force on the West Coast arriving at North Island, San Diego on July 10, 1914. He recognized the value of the area as an ideal choice for a Marine Corps' Base and pioneered Marine Corps activities that contributed to California's evolving military heritage. For the next ten years, his regiment improved the military facilities at North Island, making a favorable impression on the San Diego Community as well as the entire Pacific coast. On June 19, 1916, he was placed in command of all naval forces ashore in Santo Domingo. During this campaign, he participated in engagements with the enemy at Las Trencheras, Dona Antonia, Guayacanes and the forces that occupied Santiago. For these actions he received the Navy Cross and the Distinguished Service Medal. Promoted to Major General on December 10, 1923, he retired from active duty in 1924. As a civilian, he became active in civic affairs and served as mayor of Coronado from 1928 to 1930. Shortly after his death, the Marine Corps started construction of a large base on the former Rancho Santa Margarita Las Flores near Oceanside, California. On September 25, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt arrived at the camp and officially dedicated it as Camp Joseph H. Pendleton, named in his honor. Camp Pendleton continues as the U.S. Marine Corps world premier base for training and deployment.