Desmond Doss, American army corporal and combat medic, Medal of Honor recipient (d. 2006)

Desmond Thomas Doss, born on February 7, 1919, and passing away on March 23, 2006, was an extraordinary figure in American military history. As a United States Army corporal, he served with distinction as a combat medic within an infantry company during the perilous campaigns of World War II. His unwavering commitment to saving lives, even in the most dire circumstances, set him apart as a true hero.

Early Service and Distinguished Actions

Before his most renowned acts of heroism, Doss had already demonstrated exceptional bravery and dedication. He was notably awarded the Bronze Star Medal twice, recognizing his valorous actions during intense combat operations in both Guam and the Philippines. The Bronze Star is awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement or service in a combat zone, underscoring his consistent courage under fire.

The Battle of Okinawa: A Conscientious Objector's Unprecedented Valor

Doss's legacy was cemented during the brutal Battle of Okinawa, a pivotal and one of the deadliest campaigns of World War II. Serving with the 77th Infantry Division, specifically the 307th Infantry Regiment, he found himself amidst the ferocious fighting for the Maeda Escarpment, infamously known as "Hacksaw Ridge." This sheer, jagged cliff presented an almost insurmountable natural fortress, where Japanese forces were heavily entrenched.

Amidst a relentless Japanese counterattack on May 5, 1945, Doss's company was forced to retreat from the ridge, leaving behind numerous wounded soldiers. Despite being unarmed and under constant enemy fire, Doss refused to abandon his comrades. Over a period of several hours, single-handedly and against overwhelming odds, he systematically located, treated, and then lowered approximately 75 wounded men one by one from the perilous 400-foot escarpment using a makeshift rope litter. His actions not only saved lives but also defied conventional military expectations.

A Unique Distinction: The Conscientious Objector as a War Hero

What makes Desmond Doss's story particularly remarkable is that he accomplished these extraordinary feats as a conscientious objector. Due to his deeply held Seventh-day Adventist beliefs, Doss refused to carry a weapon or kill enemy combatants. However, unlike many who sought exemption from military service, he voluntarily enlisted in the Army, determined to serve his country as a combat medic, a role that aligned perfectly with his faith's emphasis on preserving life. He famously preferred the term "conscientious cooperator" to describe his commitment to serve without violating his convictions.

Medal of Honor: The Nation's Highest Recognition

For his unparalleled bravery and humanitarian efforts on Okinawa, Desmond Doss was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration for valor in the United States Armed Forces. He received this prestigious award on November 1, 1945, from President Harry S. Truman at the White House. This made him the only conscientious objector in American history to receive the Medal of Honor for actions during World War II, a testament to his unique blend of courage, conviction, and selflessness.

Lasting Legacy and Media Portrayal

Desmond Doss's incredible life story has continued to inspire generations. His experiences have been extensively documented, serving as the subject of numerous books, including his biography "Conscientious Objector" by Booton Herndon. His life was also powerfully captured in the acclaimed 2004 documentary, "The Conscientious Objector."

In 2016, his heroism gained global recognition with the release of the Oscar-winning biographical war film, Hacksaw Ridge. Directed by Mel Gibson, the film vividly depicted Doss's extraordinary journey and his unwavering faith and courage under fire. Actor Andrew Garfield delivered a critically acclaimed performance portraying Doss, bringing his remarkable story to a wider audience and ensuring his legacy as a true American hero endures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Desmond Doss

What was Desmond Doss's role in World War II?

Desmond Doss served as a combat medic in the United States Army during World War II. He was responsible for providing medical care and evacuating wounded soldiers from the battlefield, often under intense enemy fire.

Why was Desmond Doss considered a "conscientious objector"?

Doss was a conscientious objector due to his devout Seventh-day Adventist faith, which prohibited him from carrying a weapon or taking a human life. However, he was unique because he voluntarily enlisted to serve as a medic, demonstrating his commitment to his country while upholding his deeply held beliefs.

How many men did Desmond Doss save on Hacksaw Ridge?

During the Battle of Okinawa, particularly at the Maeda Escarpment (Hacksaw Ridge), Desmond Doss is officially credited with single-handedly saving the lives of approximately 75 wounded soldiers by lowering them from the cliff face under enemy fire.

What awards did Desmond Doss receive?

Desmond Doss received numerous accolades for his bravery, including two Bronze Star Medals for actions in Guam and the Philippines. Most notably, he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism at Okinawa, making him the only conscientious objector to receive this highest military decoration in World War II.

Is the movie Hacksaw Ridge accurate?

While Hacksaw Ridge is a dramatic portrayal, it largely remains faithful to the core events of Desmond Doss's life and his heroic actions on Okinawa. The film took some creative liberties for narrative purposes, but the central themes of his faith, courage, and his extraordinary rescue efforts are accurately depicted.