Lewis Nixon was a United States Army officer in the 101st Airborne Division, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Battalion, Easy Company during World War II. He was close friends with company commanding officer Richard Winters who served with him throughout the war. Lewis was also featured in the HBO miniseries Band of Brothers and was portrayed by actor Ron Livingston.

Nixon was born in 1918 in New York City. He lived in New York City and Montecito, Calif. and traveled the world extensively as a child visiting countries such as France, England, and Germany. Countries he would visit again during the war. After attending Yale University for two years, Nixon enlisted in the army in 1941. He graduated from Army Officer Candidate School in 1941 and joined the paratroopers.

Nixon left the school as a second lieutenant and was assigned to Easy Company. He then went through basic training in Georgia before heading to England for the American invasion of France at Normandy. He was eventually promoted to intelligence officer at the battalion level and eventually to the regimental level not long after Easy Company took Carenton in mid-1944. During the war he served in Normandy, the Netherlands, Bastogne, Belgium, and Germany. He got shot in the helmet in Holland and the bullet bounced off. He ended the war at the rank of Captain, returning home in September 1945.

After the war he worked at the family business, Nixon Nitration Works in Nixon, New Jersey. Lewis Nixon passed away in 1995.

Labels: leaders

Richard D. Winters is a retired U.S. Army officer who commanded “Easy Company” of the 2nd Battallion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division during World War II. He was also portrayed as the main character in the superb HBO miniseries Band of Brothers.

Winters enlisted in the Army in 1941 with the goal of shortening his time in service. When he graduated from basic training, he was selected to attend Army Officer Candidate School in Georgia. It was there that he met his friend Lewis Nixon with whom he’d spend the entire war with as part of the 101st Airborne Division. He eventually became the commanding officer of Easy Company not long after arriving in Europe.

He landed with Easy Company during the invasion of Normandy. Winters was recommended for the Medal of Honor for his actions at Brecourt Manor, which ended up being downgraded to the Distinguished Service Cross due to a rule of only one Medal of Honor being awarded per division. Winters also commanded the company through Belgium at the Battle of Bastogne and remained in Europe until November 1945.

After the war, Winters worked for awhile with Lewis Nixon at the Nixon family business, Nixon Nitration Works. He eventually was reactivated during the Korean War to train infantrymen and Rangers with the U.S. Army. He then went into business for himself selling animal feed products to farmers in Pennsylvania. He eventually raised two children with his wife Ethel on a small farm in Pennsylvania. Winters became an icon of the war due to the Stephen Ambrose book Band of Brothers and the subsequent HBO miniseries.

Labels: WWII

Few names are as legendary and well known in the United States as George Washington. He was one of the critical figures in the founding of the United States and is known as the father of our country. He led the Continental Army over Britain in the American Revolutionary War and went on to be the first President of the United States of America, serving two terms.

Washington served as a surveyor of rural lands as a youth, which helped him learn a lot about the terrain of his native Virginia. Eventually he got his first battle command experience in the French and Indian War in the 1750s and 1760s where he began as a colonel and eventually became a commander. He was known for his military bearing and charisma and became a leader of the patriot cause in Virginia. The Second Continental Congress chose him as their commander-in-chief of the American Army in 1775.

He was victorious over the British in 1776 forcing them out of Boston, however later that year, he was defeated and almost captured after losing New York City. That night he led his forces across the Delaware River in New Jersey and defeated the surprised British forces. He went on to lead American forces to capture the two main British combat armies in 1777 and 1781.

When the war ended in 1783, Washington retired to his plantation on Mount Vernon. By the late 1780s he was concerned about the weakness he saw in the new nation under the Articles of Confederation, leading him to preside over the Constitutional Convention that drafted the U.S. Constitution in 1787. Washington became President of the United States in 1789.

Labels: George Washignton, presidents

Fleet Admiral Chester William Nimitz was Commander in Chief of Pacific Forces for the U.S. and Allied forces during World War II. In his day he was the leading U.S. authority on submarines, served as Chief of the Navy Bureau, and was the last surviving Fleet Admiral in the U.S.

Nimitz was a German descendent born in Fredericksburg, Texas in 1885, where his home is now a museum. Fredericksburg is also home to the Nimitz National Museum of the Pacific War. His military career began in earnest with the beginning of World War II. In 1917 he became aide to Rear Admiral Samuel S. Robinson, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. He was then appointed in 1918 as Chief of Staff and quickly worked his way up the ladder.

Ten days after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1942, marking the U.S. entry into World War II, Nimitz was named Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet with the rank of Admiral. Despite being behind from the start due to losses at Pearl Harbor and a shortage of ships, planes, and supplies, he was able to successfully stop the Japanese advance in the Pacific.

On October 7, 1943 Nimitz was designated Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet, and Pacific Ocean Areas. The position of Fleet Admiral, the highest grade in the Navy, was established by an Act of Congress in 1943 and the next day President Roosevelt appointed Admrial Nimitz to the rank. After the war, in late 1945, he was nominated as Chief of Naval Operations which was confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

Labels: historical battels, leaders

Although he served in the U.S. Navy during the Civil War, even taking part in the attack on Fort Sumter and the capture of Georgetown, Henry Glass is most famous for the shocking ease with which he conquered Guam.

In 1898, in the midst of the Spanish-American War, Glass was commanding the U.S.S. Charleston when he was instructed to sail from Honolulu to Guam, the largest island of the Marianas in the Western Pacific Ocean. Guam was under Spanish rule at the time, and U.S. military planners considered it an easy target. They had no idea how easy.

Joining the Charleston on the journey were three troop transports, the City of Peking, the City of Sydney, and the Australia. Glass didn't open his sealed orders until they were at sea. And his orders were simple. Capture Guam.

Uncertain of the resistance they'd face, Glass had the crew of the Charleston take target practice on the way, preparing for any eventuality. When they reached the island, Glass targeted the fort of Santa Cruz and opened fire with the Charleston's three powder guns. There was no response. After several minutes, a small boat bearing a Spanish flag approached. The vessel's lone occupants were Lt. Garcia Gutierrez of the Spanish Navy and Dr. Romero of the Spanish Army. They inquired about the health of Glass and his crew and then asked to borrow some gun powder so they could return the Charleston's salute. Gutierrez and Romero, not to mention the other few inhabitants of the poorly-defended island, had no idea there was even a war.

When informed of the ongoing conflict, Guam governor Juan Marina surrendered the island without the slightest hint of resistance, giving the United States its first possession in the Pacific.

Labels: American history, U.S.S. Charleston, war heroes

An American statesman and proud Texan, Samuel Houston served heroically in the War of 1812 before earning more military fame for his role in freeing Texas from Mexican rule.

During the War of 1812, Houston, at just 19 years old, joined the 7th Regiment of Infantry. He quickly rose to the rank of lieutenant and fought valiantly at the Battle of Horseshoe Bend. When he suffered an arrow wound, he quickly bandaged it and continued fighting, even volunteering to storm a group of Creek Indians from their fortifications. He took a bullet to the arm in the subsequent conflict, but it never tempered his fighting spirit. His courage won the admiration of Andrew Jackson, who was commanding the American forces, and the two became close friends.

Following the war, Houston entered the political realm, getting elected to the House of Representatives of Tennessee. He was a devoted Jackson supporter, emerging as the political protégé of his former commanding officer. Under Jackson's guidance, Houston became the Governor of Tennessee. But bouts of alcoholism and other personal problems prohibited Houston from running for re-election and caused a rift with Jackson.

Looking to start fresh, Houston traveled to Mexican Texas and quickly got involved in politics, championing the idea of an Independent Texas. In 1836, he was named commander-in-chief of the Texas Army. After Mexican dictator and general Antonio López de Santa Anna slaughtered everyone at the Alamo, Houston surprised Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto, attacking the Mexican forces during their afternoon siesta. The decisive victory compelled Santa Anna to sign the Treaty of Velasco which granted Texas independence. For his gallant military service, Houston was elected the President of the Republic of Texas in 1836 and again in 1841.

Labels: Andrew Jackson, dates, war heroes

Bravery is doing the right thing no matter the consequences. Few acts are as brave or noble as what Sidney Godley performed on August 23, 1914.

A member of the Royal Fusiliers, which was a British Army battalion named for the flintlock muskets they used to carry, Godley and his fellow soldiers were deployed to France on August 14 to try and stall the German advance on Paris. When the Fusiliers moved forward to Nimy, Belgium, it was apparent the French forces were going to be unable to stop the German march. It was decided to retreat to the River Marne.

To permit the large scale retreat, the Royal Fusiliers were ordered to hold two bridges over the Mons-Conde Canal while the rest of the forces withdrew to safety. They had only two machine guns against six full divisions of the German army.

Knowing the machine gun nests were their only impediment, the Germans unleashed their full weaponry upon the solitary targets. Each time a gunner fell, a new man was sent to take his place, courting suicide. As the last of the British forces were preparing to leave, Godley and another brave soul, Maurice Dease, volunteered to man the guns. Dease fell almost instantly. Godley remained alone, defending the bridge against impossible odds in order to protect his fellow soldiers. He took shrapnel in the back but kept firing, not relenting until a bullet struck him in the head.
Amazingly, Godley survived. German surgeons removed the bullets and he spent the rest of the World War I recovering in a prison camp. After the armistice, Godley received the Victoria Cross, England's highest medal for valor, in a ceremony at Buckingham Palace. There's even a new bridge in Nimy with a plaque honoring Dease and Godley's heroism.

Labels: dates, historical battels, war heroes

Perhaps the most revered Southern commander of the Civil War, Thomas, "Stonewall" Jackson earned his nickname during the First Battle of Bull Run in 1861 for his strong will in battle. He's regarded as one of the best war tacticians in American history

Jackson gained immense notoriety for his Valley Campaign of 1862. Using swift, bold movements, Jackson led his 17,000 Confederate soldiers through Virginia's Shenandoah Valley to battle three Union armies. Jackson was a professor at the Virginia Military Institute prior to the war, giving him a thorough knowledge of the surrounding area.
Despite being outmanned more than three-to-one, Jackson succeeded in preventing the Union forces from reinforcing the North's assault on Virginia. Over the course of the campaign, Jackson marched his men 646 miles in 48 days. His lightning maneuvers and surprise tactics befuddled the Union commanders, earning Jackson incredible popularity and strengthening the South's morale.

At the Battle of Chancellorsville in 1863, Jackson perpetrated another military marvel. Under the guidance of his good friend and commander Robert E. Lee, Jackson looped around to annihilate the Union's far right flank, pulling off an amazing feat still studied in modern military circles. Facing staggering odds at Chancellorsville, Jackson's courageous charge delivered a Confederate victory and handed the Union an embarrassing defeat.

Sadly, Jackson never got to enjoy the triumph. While riding ahead to scout further attacks, Jackson was mistaken for a Union patrol and shot by his own men, taking two bullets in the left arm and one in the hand. The arm was amputated. Jackson contracted pneumonia and died seven days later. His death devastated the Southern cause and robbed Lee of his greatest general and ally, hastening the Confederacy's eventual demise.

Labels: American history, war heroes

Not every war hero becomes legendary for destruction and death. Noel Godfrey Chavasse became England's most honored serviceman in World War I due to his bravery in preserving life.

Born in Oxford in 1884, Chavasse attended both Liverpool College and Trinity College, studying medicine. He and his twin brother represented Britain in the 400-meter race at the 1908 Olympics. A year later, Chavasse joined the Oxford University Officer Training Corps Medical Unit, eventually rising to a position within the Royal Army Medical Corps in 1913.

When World War I erupted, Chavasse volunteered to serve in France, moving to the Western Front with the Liverpool Scottish Regiment. Like most World War I medics, his initial efforts were focused on battling trench foot, a dreadful condition caused by standing for prolonged periods of time in the damp, muddy battlefield trenches.

On August 9, 1916, at Guillemont, France, Chavasse bravely attended wounded soldiers in the field, courageously risking his life to approach enemy lines and rescue fallen comrades. All told, he saved 20 wounded men. His efforts earned him the prestigious Victoria Cross, which is given for valor in the face of the enemy. It's the highest medal for bravery in the United Kingdom.

Incredibly, Chavasse earned a second Victoria Cross in late July and early August of 1917 at Wieltje, Belgium. Determined to save his fellow soldiers, Chavasse ignored his own injuries to continue treating fallen soldiers and carrying them to safety. Only days later, Chavasse paid the ultimate price, dying of his wounds.

Chavasse is one of only three people to receive two Victoria Crosses. He's also honored with 16 separate war memorials across the U.K.

Labels: medics, war heroes, world wars

The military was in Robert E. Lee's blood. His father was Revolutionary War hero Henry Lee. Following in his father's footsteps, Robert would become one of the most famous general's in American history, although he fought for a losing cause.

Born in Westmoreland County, Virginia, in 1807, Lee's paternal ancestors were some of the first Virginia settlers, forging a deep familial loyalty to the state. At 18, Lee entered the United States Military Academy at West Point and finished second in his class of 46 cadets, graduating without receiving a single demerit. Lee served in the Corps of Engineers until tasting his first action during the Mexican-American War. After distinguished service in combat, Lee returned to engineering until becoming West Point superintendent in 1852. Following his term at West Point, Lee ended his 25-year career with the Corps of Engineers, accepting an appointment as Lieutenant Colonel of the 2nd U.S. Cavalry.

With the Civil War looming, the Union Army attempted to give Lee a top command, but Lee said he'd only accept if Virginia remained in the Union. When Virginia seceded, Lee resigned from the U.S. Army and fought with the Confederates.

Despite early setbacks, Lee eventually assumed command of the Army of Northern Virginia. Lee gained the nicknames "Granny Lee" and "Ace of Spades" for his defensive strategy and trench digging to fortify Virginia. But Lee would prove his critics wrong, blistering the Union forces with a series of aggressive attacks, conquering their superior numbers with brilliant battlefield tactics and maneuvering. He scored decisive victories at Seven Days Battles, the Second Battle of Bull Run, the Battle of Fredericksburg, and the Battle of Chancellorsville. But Lee earned his greatest respect following his surrender, acting as a true gentleman and serving as a source of Southern pride for generations.

Labels: famous generals, historical battels, war heroes

A failed lawyer and banker, William Tecumseh Sherman became a legend as a Northern commander during the Civil War, becoming famous for his scorched earth policy that leveled Georgia and the Carolinas.

Until embarking on his infamous March to the Sea, Sherman had mixed military success during the war. His first commission was as colonel of the 13th U.S. Infantry. He distinguished himself at the First Battle of Bull Run on July 21, 1861, suffering wounds to his shoulder and knee during the Union defeat. Despite the loss, President Abraham Lincoln promoted Sherman to brigadier general of volunteers and assigned him to the Department of the Cumberland in Louisville, Kentucky.

Having serious doubts about the war, Sherman had a severe nervous breakdown, causing rumors of insanity to spread. He was removed from command and put on leave to recover from the mental stress. Not long after, Sherman rejoined the army and volunteered to serve under Ulysses S. Grant even though he had seniority over Grant. The two became fast friends. Grant continually relied on Sherman despite mixed results in battle. For his part, Sherman was pivotal in convincing Grant not to resign command during political squabbles with Maj. Gen. Henry W. Halleck.

Aside from keeping Grant in the army, Sherman's other enormous contribution to the North victory was his capture of Atlanta on September 2, 1864. The decisive victory carried Lincoln to re-election in the November presidential campaign. Without Atlanta, Lincoln likely loses the White House, paving the way for an independent South and a shattered Union.

Sherman waged total warfare in Georgia and the Carolinas, destroying everything in sight, inflicting immeasurable property damage in an attempt to undermine the Confederate infrastructure and crush morale. While many found Sherman's tactics extreme, he considered it the only way to achieve peace.

Labels: dates, historical battels

Ulysses S. Grant had a long and winding road to military greatness. Even his name was a mistake. Born Hiram Ulysses Grant in Point Pleasant, Ohio, in 1822, a clerical error during his registration at West Point resulted in his being known as Ulysses S. Grant. Upon graduation, Grant adopted the middle initial as his own.

Grant, who ranked 21st in his West Point graduating class of 39 cadets, saw his first military action during the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), fighting in the battles of Resaca de la Palma, Palo Alto, Monterrey, and Veracruz.

Following the war, Grant bounced around to various posts before resigning from the army in 1854. The exact reason for his decision remains open to debate, but it certainly triggered a trying time in his life, as he struggled through several years of manual labor and odd jobs to support his family.

When the Civil War broke, Grant was one of the first to join the Union cause. He accepted a position to recruit and train volunteers. His stellar performance eventually led to his first field command as colonel of the 21st Illinois Infantry. From there, Grant diligently made his way up the ladder, scoring impressive victories at Shiloh, Vicksburg, and Chattanooga. He earned the praise and respect of President Abraham Lincoln, who was desperate to find a general who could win battles. On March 12, 1864, Lincoln appointed Grant general-in-chief of all U.S. armies.

Grant's ascension to power was the turning point in the conflict. His brilliant generalship and his willingness to wage a war of attrition carried the North to ultimate triumph, forcing Confederate General Robert E. Lee to surrender at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865.

Labels: civil war, confederate, dates

Lori-Ann Piestewa probably never thought of herself as anyone out of the ordinary, much less a hero. She was the single mother of two living in a little town in Arizona with a high unemployment rate, and needed to put food on the table. So, continuing the family tradition started by her grandfather, Lori-Ann joined the army.

She became a member of the 507th Maintenance Company operating in Iraq 2003 war. As one of the pioneer soldiers in the beginning of the war, Lori-Ann and her company took a wrong turn in a city south of Baghdad and were ambushed by a group of Iraqi soldiers.

Not flinching, Lori-Ann boldly drove the company’s Humvee through the ambush, trying to outrun the attackers. But the Humvee crashed into a pole, killing three of the other four passengers. Lori-Ann and her fellow soldier Jessica Lynch survived the crash and were taken captive.

Though Jessica Lynch was later freed, it was too late for Lori-Ann, who died of her wounds just a short time after being captured.

Lori-Ann was the first Native American woman to die in combat for the US Army and the first female US soldier to die in Iraq. The army awarded Lori-Ann the Purple Heart and Prisoner of War medals, though many believe she should have been awarded higher ones. Jessica Lynch has emphasized repeatedly that Lori-Ann was the true hero of the attack.

Lori-Ann’s home state of Arizona has done more to honor their local hero, doing everything from renaming a mountain after her to organizing annual games for Native Americans across the country.

Labels: war heroes, War in Iraq, women

Edward Carter was the son of zealous missionary parents who ultimately ended up making their home in Shanghai, China. From the beginning, Edward showed an adventurous spirit. He left home without his parents’ knowledge and enlisted in the Chinese National Army. He knew what he wanted from the beginning and went after it with an indomitable spirit, despite major obstacles. In no time at all, Edward’s enormous ability as both a leader and combatant surfaced above his peers, and he was promoted to Lieutenant.

What no one knew, however, was that Edward was only fifteen! His skill and maturity exceeded his years and it took some time for the military to find out the true year of his birth. To his dismay, they sent him back to his parents as soon as they found out, and he ended up enrolling in the Shanghai Military School, to lend a formal cap of education to his natural abilities.

After Edward married an American, he enlisted in the US Army in 1941, right in time for WWII. He was very quickly promoted to Staff Sergeant, and when his company was drafted for combat, the military demoted him to the rank of a mere private, simply because they doubted white soldiers would be able to handle taking orders from a black leader. Edward, showing his extraordinary humility and devotion to America and his career as a military man, accepted the demotion, though his actions almost always betrayed his higher ranking.

He continually distinguished himself in combat throughout the war, and near the end of the worlwide conflict, his actions culminated in a last act of heroism when he managed to kill or wound eight enemy riflemen while wounded.

Edward was considered for the National Medal of Honor because of this act, but was given instead the Distinguished Service Cross.

But on January 13, 1997, President Bill Clinton gave the long overdue Medal of Honor to Edward’s son, in remembrance of what his father had done for this country.

Labels: african american soldiers, leaders, war heroes, WWII

A young Austrian immigrant arrived in America in 1849. Leopold Karpeles could have let the fear of living in a completely foreign country with a completely foreign mindset and language daunt him into a lifetime of obscure and poverty, lived out amongst the teeming slums in the heart of a city as so many others did.

With the outbreak of war, Leopold would soon have the chance to prove his mettle to his country and to the world. He joined the 57th Massachusetts Infantry as a sergeant and left New England with his company on April 17, 1864.

His company soon met up with General Grant’s army in Wilderness, Virginia, and the two companies joined forces to try and start the takeover of the Confederate capital.

Confederate forces put up a solid wall of defense which at first proved impossible to penetrate. For three days the two armies fought desperately, and many men died. On the evening of the third day, the Confederates charged the Union line.

The smoke from the guns and cannons was so thick that one could barely see who he was shooting. Sergeant Karpeles stood up full in the line of fire and waved the Union flag. The Union troops, seeing their flag waving like a beacon of hope through the smoke, rallied around their Sergeant and succeeded in pushing back the charging Confederate forces.

Sergeant Karpeles became one of only six Jews who received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his courage and loyalty in battle.

Labels: civil war, leaders, war heroes

Most young boys dream of becoming an airplane pilot, so did Ace pilot Joseph Jacob Foss only his dream came true. Inspired by the flight he took on the Spirit of St. Louis when he was just a child, Foss immediately knew where his life would take him But before this aspiring young man could entertain his dreams, he knew that life after the military would eventually await him. Keeping his entire future in mind, Joe Foss obtained a degree in Business Administration from the University of South Dakota, but his business career (and later political career) would have to wait – Foss had s childhood dream to attend to.

Shortly after graduating, Foss enlisted in the Marine Reserves hoping to become a Naval Aviator. Although Foss did receive his aviation license, the military decided that his skills could best be utilized by teaching other to fly and by joining the Marine Photographic Squadron, but this didn’t exactly satisfy his lifelong goal of being a fighter plane pilot. Not willing to give up on his dreams and take pictures, Foss auditioned for the F4F Wildcats and was immediately reassigned as a high ranking officer for the outfit. Foss proved to be one of the most effective, indispensable pilots that the military has ever seen. He single handedly managed to eliminate more than twenty three Japanese enemy planes, an accomplishment he received the Medal of Honor for. In a surprising twist, after the war was over, Foss returned to the west in order to take charge of his other pastime – football. As commissioner of the American Football League he played a big part in the league’s roots, but unfortunately he resigned from his post before the NFL took shape. In addition, Foss became a generous philanthropist and a media icon. A man such as this would never leave the world on an average day, passing away on New Years Day in 2003, Foss is buried with honor at the Arlington National Cemetery.

Labels: pilots, war heroes

Joseph Jacques Cesaire Joffre was born on the 12th of January, 1852, in Roussillion, France. Joffre was an engineer by trade and upon graduating from the Ecoloe Polytechnique, he decided to use his skills in the French military. Although acting as an engineer in the military is not a position that will normally warrant a Medal of Honor, Joffre was please simply to be able to serve his country. After accepting the position of Commander in Chief of the French Army, Joffre began to show that his analytical engineering skills would certainly aide the French military.

Joffre earned great respect among his colleagues and troops alike and was nicknamed “Papa Joffre” due to his gentle nature, kind heart, and snow white moustache. When the French troops began to become disorganized Joffre quickly sprung into action in order to make the unit cohesive once again – something that was crucial to military strategy. Joffre knew that a divided military meant an opening for German attackers, and he wasn’t going to witness that on his watch. Swiftly, Joffre combined the 9th and 10th platoons into one organized group and sent them as a team unit to serve under Joseph Gallieni. Later, Joffre was awarded the title of Marshal of France where he headed up the France/U.S.A initiative. Joffre also accepted the title of Supreme War Council leader in 1918 and gathered the respect of all the countries that came across his path, Canada even named a mountain in his honor. War heroes can gather numerous medals, but without the respect of nations they will quickly be forgotten. Joseph Joffre’s legacy will live on in Europe, Canada, and in the United States -- an accomplishment like no other.

Labels: leaders, war heroes

The Wild West seems to breed military rebels, and Lucian Adams was no exception to the rule. Adams tempted fate when he refused to let his battalion run out of supplies during World War II. Adams joined the U.S. military after directly after high school answering an internal call to duty that would not let him go on with his life until he had served his country. Adams’ company the 30th Infantry, 3rd division, was sent to France to fight Germany soldiers on the front line. Refusing to go home in a wooden box, Adam took the battle near St. Die, France, into his own hands.

Adams proved an unstoppable force as his company, desperately trying to open supply lines by driving through the Montagne Forest, was attacked by enemy fire. As his company relentlessly tried to progress through the forest, Adams took it upon himself to destroy German forces all on his own. Grabbing any ammunition that was hand, and filling his pockets with hand grenades, Adams maneuvered himself through the forest and ran directly into enemy fire. Adams attempt at eliminating the German forces that stood between him and his much needed supplies, was successful. Adams alone charged all the men that stood in his way, shooting some and throwing hand grenades at others. Finally, his regiment was able to get through the forest and secure their supplies. For this unbelievable act of courage and tenacity, Adams received the prestigious Medal of Honor. Throughout his career he also received the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal – talk about being a decorated soldier! Adams returned home after the war where he lived a long live passing away at the age of 81 at his home in San Antonio, Texas.

Labels: war heroes, WWII

Before he became the thirty-forth president of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower was a war hero. This Texan was largely responsible for helping the United States triumph over Nazi troops during World War II. From the start of the war, Eisenhower was given large responsibilities that included devising war plans and tactics that would help the U.S. defeat the looming threat that was Japan and the strong German forces. Eisenhower’s impressive military tactics were immediately put to use when General George Marshall helped to appoint Eisenhower to the post of Commanding General for operations based in London, England. Impressed by his display of military knowledge, Eisenhower was granted control over the British 8th Army – a first for an American Commander.

Eisenhower was always the brain behind many key elements in U.S. military strategy. Former President Roosevelt trusted Eisenhower with critical military negotiation, and military leaders across the world took notice and tried to emulate Eisenhower’s own military brilliance. Highly praised throughout World War II, Eisenhower simply rose to greater status. Proud of his accomplishments, Eisenhower accepted each offered position from Military Governor to Chief of Staff and then finally to presidency in 1953. Perhaps a first in U.S. presidency history, Eisenhower was repeatedly begged to run for presidency from the citizens of the United States. Those that wanted Eisenhower in office were impressed by his cool military tact and confident demeanor, Americans everywhere rejoiced when Eisenhower won the presidential race. No other man in history rose as quickly and as modestly as Eisenhower did. Although he was always behind the scene, he remains a war hero for his great American war time contribution.

Labels: leaders, presidents, WWII

It appears as though every movie character that portrays a rough, hard headed, stubborn man is modeled after “old blood and guts” himself. George S. Patton was born in San Gabriel, California, to a wealthy Scottish family. Patton spent many days at his parents home when he was just a boy reading classic novels that focused on war and war tactics. Patton has a thirst to become a forced to be reckoned with from a young age. It seems as though some war heroes have their path picked out for them, and Patton was certainly one of those types of heroes. Some attribute his tough exterior to plan old god genes – his ancestors were all military heroes, colonels, and generals. In fact, taking his ancestry to heart, Patton thoroughly believed in reincarnation, and he claimed to personally be in touch with his war hero ancestors. Given Patton’s history, perhaps this legend is true. Graduating from the United States Military Academy, Patton was awarded the title of Calvary Officer. More than a soldier, Patton also prided himself on being a top notch physical specimen and (surprisingly) competed in the 1912 summer Olympics where he competed in the sport of the pentathlon.

Recalling his boyhood dreams, Patton finally enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Civil War to serve on the side of the Confederates. Patton served in many wars throughout his lifetime, but it was World War II that he is best remembered for. Patton’s reputation as a tight lipped, rugged, military commander all but frightened his troops who were made to wear full uniforms and shave every day. Patton’s quest in inciting fear into his men was simply a tactic of war – he needed to have soldiers that were able to perform bravely by listening to his every command. The list of campaigns that Patton led his troops through is endless. Some remember Patton for his military service, but he is most remembered for his character. Although Patton was removed from battlefields for his apparent lust for blood and rebellious speeches (that were said to incite a gruesome torture episode by American troops taken out on Prisoners of War), he was asked to return to his services time and time again. Why? Because the man was great. Throughout his lifetime, he earned the Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart. In a tragic twist, Patton was killed in a car accident while hunting pheasant in the German countryside.

Labels: civil war, leaders, war heroes, WWII

Douglas MacArthur had war in his veins, coming from a line of war heroes, he is often quoted as saying that he could “ride and shoot even before I could read or write—indeed, almost before I could walk and talk.” MacArthur was not a favorite of authority figures, for he always felt the need to disobey rules and laws that were handed down to him. Instead of thinking with his head, MacArthur thought with his heart and his passion for victory. It might be said that MacArthur was the original renegade commando.

Highly criticized throughout his war career by presidents and officials alike, MacArthur never seemed to let disdain phase him. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his incredible defense of the Philippines. MacArthur was the brain behind the Philippine defense and he promised the people of the Philippines that he would successfully evade the Japanese enemy, and he never let them down. Because of his careful maneuvering and somewhat rebellious risky style, MacArthur was also awarded one of the Philippines highest honors, the Medal of Valor. After his heroic stint during World War II, MacArthur went on to fight in various other battles, always rebelling always remaining a legend. In the end, MacArthur led a comfortable life advising Presidents such as John F. Kennedy on war matters. MacArthur’s opinion was highly valued and praised amongst most political leaders in the United States. Today, MacArthur is remembered for being a true soldier, a role model for many Americans today.

Labels: war heroes, WWII

Joshua L. Chamberlain was born in the small town of Brewer, Maine, on September 8th, 1828, and he would be the next great, war hero in a long line of military men. Chamberlain’s father, grandfather, and great grandfather’s all served in wars that were occurring during their lifetimes. Joshua would prove to be no different. Chamberlain began his career not as a soldier, but as a teacher at Bowdoin College in Maine. Known at the time for being a great intellectual, Chamberlain was refused permission by his college administrators to join the military – they simply believed that his knowledge and skill was indispensable, and they were probably right.

Sneakily, Chamberlain asked for a leave of absence to further his linguistic education, but decided to enlist in the Union army instead. Recognizing his education and prestige, the Union army offered Chamberlain a relatively high ranking position, which he refused. Having no previous war training other than the many stories that his patriarchal lineage left to him, Chamberlain felt he was largely unprepared to lead a Union cavalry. So, instead of taking the job as Colonel of the 20th Maine Regiment, Chamberlain enlisted as a lieutenant. Although Chamberlain’s regiment marched and fought in many battles, the Battle of Gettysburg marked his future fame. Chamberlain’s troops were stationed on Little Round Top next to a long line of Union soldiers, but as the battle progressed the Confederate army was successfully gaining ground much to Chamberlain’s dismay. Rather than accepting defeat, Chamberlain ordered his troops to take to their bayonet’s and charge the attacking men. His troops responded and the Confederate army was pushed back successfully. Chamberlain is known today for his courage, and for his insistence that the Union army would not fall under his watch.

Labels: civil war, war heroes

Henry Lee Higginson is best known today for being the founder the Boston Symphony Orchestra, a project which was dear to his heart. But before this business man became a philanthropist, he was a foot soldier in the Union are as served as Second Lieutenant in the 2nd Massachusetts Regiment. Swiftly being promoted to major, Higginson led his cavalry to battle on March 26, 1862. During the Battle of Aldie in Virginia, Higgonson led a saber fight that would place his name forever in the pages of Civil War history.

Upon searching for Robert E. Lee’s hidden infantry, Higginson and his men came across Confederate troops on horseback. Higginson’s men had a very brief and relatively serious encounter with enemy Lieutenant Alexander Payne’s own men. Sabers flaring, horses charging, and Higginson’s federal troops led on by his valiant steed, Higgonson and his men fought Payne’s squadron, which resulted in the retreat of the Confederates. Taking mercy upon the wounded Confederate troops, Higginson commanded his cavalry to cease their fighting, but Higginson's own comrade protested this move. Instead, in a very juvenile manner, Higgonson’s fellow soldier egged on Payne’s troops to which they responded with further attacks. Higginson was stabbed twice and shot numerous times, and as he lay in the street left for dead, Payne quickly robbed Higginson of every valuable that he had and rode away leaving the Federals helpless. Thanks to Higginson’s own men, the rest of Payne’s troops were sent away quickly and Payne was able to recover from his wounds. After the war Higginson went on to serve his country in a different way by acting as a great benefactor for numerous causes, which earned him the reputation that he has today of being both an officer and a gentleman.

Labels: civil war, epic battles, war heroes

Robert Gould Shaw was a Civil war hero and a New England legend. The young Boston native was born to a fairly wealthy merchant family out of Boston, Massachusetts. Being raised an abolitionist, Shaw was a strong supporter of the Civil war and of the North. During his younger years, Shaw traveled to Europe in search of other cultures, but eventually returned home to Boston in order to attend Harvard. School never seemed to be all that exciting for Shaw and he decided to join the 7th New York Infantry instead of completing his studies. More than demonstrating his aptitude and abolitionist spirit, Shaw was asked to command one of the very first all-black troops America had ever seen. Although Shaw was brought up to support the anti-slavery movement, he had never been too close to many African Americans, so he was a bit put off when asked to head up this new battalion.

Reluctant at first, Shaw soon found out that this all black battalion had hearts of gold and that they would do anything to honor their country. Earning their respect, Shaw led the successful troop into battle many times before he was killed during the battled at Fort Wagner. This particular battle has been immortalized in the famous painting by Kurz and Allison, and depicts Shaw's own regiment banding together to hold up the American flag on top of a hill. As he screamed at his troops to march “Forward Fifty-Fourth!” Shaw was tragically shot in the heart. Although his ending was quick and brutal, perhaps there is no better place that this war hero could have been wounded – after all, this man was driven by his heart, not his head.

Labels: abolitionism, civil war, leaders

Civil war hero, Charles Hopkins could be dubbed “the man that refused to die,” due to his various, miraculous recoveries from injuries that would have incapacitated most soldiers during the Civil war. This Jersey boy was born into a modest family that was part of the infamous Underground Railway. From a small age, Hopkins’ father taught him humility and honor by giving young Charles the important task of transporting slaves to safe Northern grounds. Greatly influenced by his fatter, Hopkins learned the trade of crafting horse harnesses, which he turned into a lucrative business later in his life. Although Hopkins was a successful business man, he knew that his duty belonged fighting for his country, and for the abolishment of slavery, on the front lines.

Despite avid protests from his stepmother and sisters, Hopkins stole away in the night at the young age of eighteen, in order to fulfill his duty as a Northerner. On June 28, 1861, Hopkins and his regiment (the New Jersey Volunteer Infantry) were sent to Vienna, Austria, to fight off the progressing German troops. Swiftly, Hopkins brigade was sent to Bull Run to serve underneath the legendary Philip Kearny who was to head up the Jersey Blues Brigade. Hopkins and the rest of his regiment easily fell in love with the courageous and inspiring Kearny. Unfortunately, Hopkins time with the infamous Kearny was cut short when Kearny accepted a higher ranking position (much to his dismay). However, the influence that Kearny had on Hopkins was great and it is because of the lessons Kearny taught him that Hopkins was able to achieve greatness. In the midst of the Gaine’s Mill battle, Hopkins comrade Sergeant Donnelly was severely wounded. Hopkins took it upon himself to carry the six foot tall Donnelly to safety while experiencing wounds of his own. Shortly after returning to front lines, Hopkins was shot in the head. But, as his strong nature refused to give up, Hopkins was treated for his head wound and returned to the front lines to fight again. In many battles that followed, Hopkins was wounded repeatedly – each time doctors told him that he would certainly die, but he never gave up. Eventually, Hopkins was taken as a prisoner of war and suffered under terrible, torturous conditions, which resulted in his contracting typhoid fever and gangrene. Ever the triumphant spirit, Hopkins tried to escape again and again throughout his imprisonment. Eventually, he succeeded and returned home to New Jersey where his family and friends were more than shocked to see him. Hopkins was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, but being the modest man that he was, he never accepted the award. Hopkins lived on into his eighties, and is now buried in Boonton, New Jersey.

Labels: civil war, underground railroad, war heroes

Being a well established organization today, most people hardly give the American Red Cross a second thought, but before the Civil war began no such organization existed. A true daughter of the United States, Clara Barton was born to a humble family in Oxford Massachusetts on December 25th, 1821. Clara’s aunt had been a midwife in Maine many years prior to her birth, and Clara spent her childhood listening to her aunt’s intriguing stories. During the 1800s, women were usually limited occupation wise, and were either teachers or housewives, but this sort of career didn’t suit Clara who simply wanted to help her country.

During the Civil war, Clara saw a golden opportunity to serve her country behind the scenes. Soldiers were dying on the battle front every day from wounds that could have been easily healed. Having had previous knowledge nursing her ailing brother’s wounds, Clara had a great understanding of the nursing profession and was passionate about pursuing her dream of healing injured soldiers. At first, her wishes were meant with a scoff and a poignant “no” from government leaders, but when one has a dream it is impossible to let it die, and Clara was no exception. As she persisted, the government realized that men didn’t need to die needlessly when there was a person more than willing to help out. Finally, Clara was granted special access to travel to the front lines and she assisted thousands of soldiers that were in desperate need of her help. Thanks to Clara Barton, the American Red Cross has been helping to save lives and distribute needed good to soldiers across the world. Clara Barton is indeed a war hero.

Labels: nurses, red cross, women

Sir Douglas Haig was a central member of the British army during World War I. He was also the center of much controversy surrounding himself and his, then, superior Sir John French. Haig and French butted heads over a number of things, but mainly over the positioning of the British army upon the outbreak of World War I. French had decided that troops should be positioned in Belgium during the way, contrary to the ideas that Haig had. Haig insisted the British troops would be better off attacking from France, since Belgium has very little means of protection – it turned out that Haig was right, Belgium forts simply could not withstand German fire.

Haig lost his fight and half of the British troops were sent to Belgium, where French was set to command them. Due to the geography of the Belgian town, Haig’s troops had to be separated from French’s own company, which tore the two British troops apart. This left a great opening for the Germans who seized their opportunity and attacked both Haig’s and French’s troops simultaneously. Legend has it that French began to panic and somewhat lost his mind when Haig frantically sent him a message stating that they were losing the battle. French eventually pulled his troops from the small town frightened by the number of casualties that the other troops were experiencing. Although French retreated, he was ordered back to battle grounds where his troops fought for one more day. The Germans eventually surrendered to British troops, and Haig was awarded the title of General – underneath his, now, enemy John French. Eventually, the pressure of the war and the mistakes that he had made caused John French to act rashly and unintelligently, which resulted in his removal from the front lines. In his place as Commander of the BEF? Why, none other than Sir Douglas Haig. Haig went on to fight other wars in far away lands, and he is remembered as a war hero today for his correct instincts and unmatched bravery.

Labels: civil war, leaders, WWI

Being the son of an officer in the Royal Navy, John French had combat in his blood. French understood the art of war, and took his knowledge to the battle field with him. Originally, French decided to try out his sea legs and join the Navy, but later found that the British Army suited him much better. Almost immediately, the British army saw French’s stellar capabilities as a leader and they appointed him lieutenant-colonel of the 19th Hussars. Along with this prestigious title came the responsibility of acting as part of the cavalry in the Second Boer War (1899-1902). Continuing his successful tactics, French was soon appointed Field Marshal in 1913. Certain of his own capabilities, and confident in his military expertise, French was not shy about voicing his opinion when it came to going against his superiors.

French believed that attacking German soldiers from France was relatively useless, and (much to the dismay of Cabinet members Lord Kitchener and Sir Douglas Haig) he insisted that troops be sent to Belgium instead of to the originally planned France. French believed that British troops would have a much better chance attacking from small Belgian towns – and it seemed that he had a great distrust of the French in general. However, French’s battle scheme did not work out so well as his troops became pummeled while on Belgian soil. For the first time ever it seemed as though French was unsure of what to do. Eventually, after many meetings and various steps taken to re-assess his original ideas, French was replaced by Douglas Haig in 1915. Although his moves on the battle field were largely unsuccessful, Britain recognized his great tactical mind and utilized his strengths by making him Commander of the British Home Forces. French remained Commander until the war ended, but he went on to assist in other wars including the Irish uprising in 1916, after which he was crowned Earl of Ypres.

Labels: leaders, war heroes, WWI

Most war heroes wind up returning to their homes at the end of the war to continue on with a normal life. Francis Grenfell was a war hero, but he was never able to see his home again. Grenfell was thirty-three years old when he joined the British military during World War I – not a very young age considering most of his comrades were in their twenties and younger! As such, Grenfell was made captain of his infantry, the 9th Lancers in the Queens Royal Army.

Grenfell was sent to Audregnies, Belgium, in August of 1914 with his unit to try and break up a German infantry that seemed impenetrable. All of Grenfell’s superiors perished in this battle and most of his soldiers as well, which left him to take over the title of senior officer. Although Grenfell survived the initial attack on the German infantry, while he was attempting to lift the spirits of his soldiers Grenfell was severely wounded by enemy fire, but this did not stop him. Along with his commander (Ernest Wright Alexander), he went into the active battled field in order to try and rescue some British guns that had been caught in the crossfire, and due to large causalities these guns could no longer be brought back to safety. Understanding the importance of maintaining all artillery, Grenfell was successful in bringing the majority of guns back to safe land. Unfortunately, he sustained serious injuries while running underneath enemy fire to rescue the guns, and he was killed in action. Francis Grenfell was awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery, but he never saw it. Today, his cross can be seen by the public at the Regimental Museum of the 9th/12th Royal Lancers in Derby, England.

Labels: war heroes, WWI