Desmond Doss

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Desmond Doss
Desmond Doss in 1945
Birth name	Desmond Thomas Doss
Born	(1919-02-07)February 7, 1919 Lynchburg, Virginia, U.S.
Died	March 23, 2006(2006-03-23) (aged 87) Piedmont, Alabama, U.S.
Buried	Chattanooga National Cemetery, Chattanooga, Tennessee, U.S.
Allegiance	United States
Service/branch	United States Army
Years of service	1942–1946
Rank	Corporal
Unit	77th Infantry Division
Battles/wars	Battle of Guam
Awards	Medal of Honor

Desmond Thomas Doss (February 7, 1919 – March 23, 2006) was a United States Army corporal who served as a combat medic with an infantry company in World War II. He was twice awarded the Bronze Star Medal for actions on Guam and in the Philippines. Doss further distinguished himself in the Battle of Okinawa by saving 75 men, becoming the only conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor for his actions during the war.

Early life

Desmond Doss was born in Lynchburg, Virginia, to William Thomas Doss, a carpenter, and Bertha Edward Doss. He grew up in a devout Seventh-day Adventist family, which influenced his strong belief in the Ten Commandments and the Sabbath. His religious convictions led him to become a conscientious objector, refusing to carry a weapon or kill enemy soldiers.

Military service

Doss enlisted in the United States Army in April 1942. Despite facing significant opposition and harassment from fellow soldiers for his refusal to carry a weapon, he served as a combat medic in the 77th Infantry Division. His actions during the Battle of Guam and the Battle of Leyte earned him two Bronze Star Medals.

Battle of Okinawa

During the Battle of Okinawa, Doss's unit was assigned to assault the Maeda Escarpment, also known as Hacksaw Ridge. On May 5, 1945, Doss's company faced heavy enemy fire, and many soldiers were wounded. Despite the danger, Doss repeatedly braved enemy fire to treat and evacuate the wounded. Over a 12-hour period, he saved 75 men, lowering them one by one down the escarpment to safety. For his actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry S. Truman on October 12, 1945.

Later life

After the war, Doss continued to suffer from injuries sustained during his service, including tuberculosis, which he contracted in Leyte. He spent years in hospitals and underwent multiple surgeries. Despite his health challenges, Doss remained active in his church and community. He passed away on March 23, 2006, and was buried in the Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Legacy

Desmond Doss's story has been the subject of books, documentaries, and the 2016 film Hacksaw Ridge, directed by Mel Gibson. His life and actions continue to inspire many, highlighting the impact of faith, courage, and non-violence.

See also

• Medal of Honor
• Seventh-day Adventist Church
• Battle of Okinawa
• Hacksaw Ridge