Mexican-American War Veteran’s two-piece medal, with tri-color silk ribbon. 54 x 58 mm. Obverse with ship, cannon, and military motifs surrounded by the names of major battles that appear along the border. The center with "MEXICO," a yucca, and Chapultepec castle within a wreath with "PERRY", "SCOTT" and "TAYLOR" below. Verso is engraved “Robert Foster / 8th Texas Cav.” The badge's suspension bar reads: “Patented March 7th 1876 / National Association of Veterans”. 

These medals were commissioned in 1876 by the National Association of Veterans of the Mexican War to honor the service of its members. Unlike later conflicts, the federal government only issued official medals to Generals Winfield Scott and Zachary Taylor for their roles in the Mexican-American War. Recognizing the lack of broader acknowledgment, the Association undertook the responsibility of commemorating the contributions of all who fought in the war, ensuring that veterans beyond the highest commanders received recognition for their service.

The engraving to the medal reverse reads "Robert Foster / 8" Texas Cav.". It is unclear which specific regiment this may be, as the 8th U.S. Cavalry was not formed until 1866, and the 8th Texas Cavalry (also known as Terry's Texas Rangers) was a Confederate volunteer regiment raised in 1861. Perhaps Foster was a member of one of the many regiments of Texas Mounted Volunteers who mustered as one of the hundreds of militias that joined the Regular U.S. Army. 

A fine Mexican-American War veteran's engraved medal with the opportunity for more discoveries. 

[Mexican War, Mexican-American War, Seminole Wars, Florida Wars] [Veterans, Veterans’ Organizations, Fraternal Organizations] [Medals, Corps Badges, Badges] 

Ribbon has small holes but is still intact.