Teddy became a deeply respected war hero during the Spanish-American War. Despite having important duties as New York City Police Commissioner and assistant secretary of the US navy, he insisted on serving the front lines when the war broke out. He led the First US Volunteer Cavalry — also known as the “Rough Riders” — and was involved in several skirmishes, suffering shrapnel injuries while storming the San Juan River in Cuba. During the Battle of San Juan Hill, he led a charge with the bare minimum of men required to hold off Spanish forces. After the war, stories of his heroics helped him become elected Governor of New York.