Desmond Doss: The Conscientious Objector Who Saved 75 Lives

Desmond Doss was a Seventh-day Adventist who believed that killing was wrong. When the United States entered World War II, he was drafted into the Army, but he refused to carry a weapon. Instead, he volunteered to serve as a medic.

Desmond Doss: Conscientious Objector

by Frances M. Doss

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Doss was sent to the front lines in Okinawa, Japan, where he witnessed the horrors of war firsthand. He saw soldiers being killed and wounded all around him, but he refused to give up hope. He used his medical skills to save the lives of countless soldiers, both American and Japanese.

On one occasion, Doss was trapped in a foxhole with a group of wounded soldiers. The Japanese were closing in on their position, and it seemed like all hope was lost. But Doss refused to give up. He prayed for strength, and then he began to sing hymns. His singing gave the other soldiers hope, and they fought back against the Japanese.

Doss's story is an inspiring example of how one person can make a difference, even in the darkest of times. He was a true hero, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

The Medal of Honor

In 1945, Doss was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in Okinawa. He was the first conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor, and his story has become a symbol of hope and courage.

The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration in the United States. It is awarded to members of the armed forces who distinguish themselves by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their own lives above and beyond the call of duty.

Doss's Medal of Honor citation reads:

Private First Class Desmond T. Doss, United States Army, Medical Detachment, 307th Infantry, 77th Infantry Division. For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his own life above and beyond the call of duty in action against an armed enemy at Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 29 April to 21 May 1945.

When his company was pinned down by enemy fire on a steep escarpment, Private First Class Doss refused to seek cover and remained in the open to aid the wounded. He carried them one by one to the edge of the escarpment and lowered them on a rope-supported litter down the cliff face to safety. He made repeated trips under heavy fire, rescuing a total of 75 men.

Private First Class Doss's extraordinary valor and self-sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Legacy

Doss's story has been told in books, movies, and television shows. He has been praised by presidents and popes, and his legacy continues to inspire people around the world.

In 2004, the United States Congress passed a resolution commending Doss for his heroism and his example of selfless service.

In 2016, Doss was inducted into the National Medal of Honor Museum.

Doss's story is a reminder that even one person can make a difference. He showed us that it is possible to stand up for what you believe in, even when it is difficult. He showed us that it is possible to be a hero, even if you don't carry a weapon.

Doss's legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. He is a true American hero, and his story is one that should never be forgotten.

Desmond Doss: Conscientious Objector

by Frances M. Doss

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6522 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	140 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE