Cary Travers Grayson



Cary Travers Grayson (11 October 1878 - 15 February 1938) was a surgeon in the United States Navy who served a variety of roles from personal aide to President Woodrow Wilson, to chairman of the American Red Cross.

Grayson was born in Culpeper, Virginia. After completing his medical studies, he was appointed Acting Assistant Surgeon, USN, 14 July 1903. A variety of posts led Grayson to Washington, where on 12 December 1912 he was assigned to the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery with additional duty as Aide to the White House. Commissioned Rear Admiral on August 29 1916, he served as personal physician and aide to President Woodrow Wilson during World War I.

Before transferring to the Retired List 20 December 1928, Admiral Grayson received the Navy Cross for exceptionally meritorious service as aide and physician to President Wilson. He was also made Commander of the National Order of the Legion of Honor by the French government. Admiral Grayson served as chairman of the American Red Cross from 1935 until his death 15 February 1938.

The USS Grayson (DD-435), a Gleaves-class destroyer was named in his honor.

Blue Ridge Farm
In 1928, Cary T. Grayson purchased Blue Ridge Farm, a horse breeding operation in Upperville, Virginia. Notably, in the year of his death, he bred the mare On Hand to Kentucky Derby winner Brokers Tip to produce Market Wise. The colt went on to become a multiple stakes winner and the 1943 U.S. Co-champion Handicap Horse.

Blue Ridge Farm remains in the hands of the Gratson family and has been listed in the United States' National Register of Historic Places.