Hacksaw Ridge Hero: The Incredible True Story of WWII Medic Desmond Doss

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Desmond Doss, the hero of Hacksaw Ridge book, is a man whose story deserves to be told. His unwavering commitment to his principles and his bravery in the face of danger make him a true hero. From a young age, Desmond was determined to serve his country, but he refused to pick up a weapon. This decision made him an outcast among his fellow soldiers, but he remained steadfast in his beliefs. When he finally had the chance to prove himself in battle, he surpassed all expectations. His actions on the battlefield not only saved countless lives but also earned him the respect of his peers and superiors.

Desmond's story begins in the small town of Lynchburg, Virginia, where he grew up with his parents and siblings. As a child, he learned the value of hard work and determination from his father, who was a carpenter. Despite their poverty, Desmond's family was close-knit and supportive of each other. It was this sense of family that would later inspire him to put himself in harm's way to save his fellow soldiers.

When Desmond turned 18, he enlisted in the army with the intention of becoming a medic. However, he soon discovered that his refusal to carry a weapon made him a target of ridicule and abuse from his fellow soldiers. Despite this, he refused to compromise his beliefs and continued to train as a medic. When his unit was sent to fight in the Pacific theater, Desmond was determined to prove that he could be a valuable asset without ever firing a shot.

Desmond's first taste of combat came during the Battle of Okinawa, where he was part of a unit tasked with capturing the Maeda Escarpment, also known as Hacksaw Ridge. The terrain was treacherous, and the Japanese defenders were fierce. Despite being wounded early on in the battle, Desmond refused to retreat. Instead, he spent the next several hours crawling through enemy fire to reach wounded soldiers and bring them to safety.

Desmond's heroism on Hacksaw Ridge did not go unnoticed. He was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor in the United States, for his actions during the battle. His story became an inspiration to millions of Americans, and he was hailed as a hero. However, Desmond remained humble, insisting that he was simply doing his duty as a medic.

After the war, Desmond returned home to Lynchburg and married his sweetheart, Dorothy. He continued to live a quiet life, working as a carpenter and raising a family. However, his heroism on Hacksaw Ridge continued to inspire others, and he was invited to speak at schools and events across the country. He remained committed to his principles until his death in 2006.

The story of Desmond Doss is a testament to the power of conviction and the courage of the human spirit. His refusal to compromise his beliefs, even in the face of persecution, is a lesson that we can all learn from. His bravery on Hacksaw Ridge saved countless lives and earned him a place in history as one of America's greatest heroes.


Introduction

The Hero of Hacksaw Ridge is a book that tells the story of an American soldier's extraordinary courage and faith during World War II. The book is written by Booton Herndon and tells the story of Desmond Doss, who served in the US Army during the war. Doss was a devout Christian and a conscientious objector who refused to carry a weapon. Despite this, he became a medic and saved countless lives during the Battle of Okinawa, for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor.

Early Life and Military Service

Desmond Doss was born in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1919. He grew up in a deeply religious family and was taught the importance of non-violence and helping others. When World War II broke out, Doss was determined to serve his country but refused to carry a weapon due to his beliefs. He joined the army as a medic and was sent to the front lines in 1944.

The Battle of Okinawa

In April 1945, Doss and his unit were sent to the island of Okinawa, where they faced intense fighting against the Japanese. During the battle, Doss risked his own life to save others, even when under heavy fire. He would often crawl through enemy lines to reach wounded soldiers and bring them back to safety. His bravery and selflessness inspired his fellow soldiers, who began to see him as a hero.

The Unwavering Faith of Desmond Doss

Doss' faith played a major role in his actions during the war. He believed that God was watching over him and guiding him in his mission to save lives. Despite the danger he faced, he never wavered in his commitment to his beliefs and his duty as a medic. His devotion to his faith and his fellow soldiers made him a true hero.

The Medal of Honor

After the Battle of Okinawa, Doss was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery and service. He became the first conscientious objector to receive the award. Doss' story was widely publicized and inspired many others to follow in his footsteps. He continued to serve in the army after the war, but his experiences in Okinawa had a profound impact on him.

Legacy and Impact

Doss' story has been told in books, documentaries, and films, including the 2016 movie Hacksaw Ridge. His bravery and selflessness continue to inspire people around the world. Doss' legacy serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of helping others, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Conclusion

The Hero of Hacksaw Ridge is a powerful tribute to one man's extraordinary courage and faith. Desmond Doss' story is a testament to the human spirit and the power of selflessness. His actions during the Battle of Okinawa saved countless lives and inspired generations to come. Doss' legacy will continue to inspire and uplift people around the world for generations to come.


Early Life and Childhood: The Roots of a Hero

Desmond Doss was born on February 7, 1919, in Lynchburg, Virginia. He was the middle child of three sons, and his parents were deeply religious. His father, William, was a carpenter, and his mother, Bertha, was a homemaker. Their faith was an integral part of their family life, and they instilled that belief in their children.From a young age, Desmond showed a strong sense of morality and a desire to help others. He would often stand up for those who were being bullied, even if it meant putting himself in harm's way. He was also known for his love of nature and spending time in the outdoors.Despite his gentle nature, Desmond faced his fair share of struggles growing up. He was bullied for his small stature and was once hit in the face with a brick, which left him with a permanent scar. However, these experiences only strengthened his resolve to do what was right and to stand up for his beliefs.

Conscientious Objector: The Struggle to Serve in World War II

When World War II broke out, Desmond felt a strong sense of duty to serve his country. However, as a devout Seventh-day Adventist, he was also a conscientious objector. This meant that he refused to carry a weapon or participate in any form of violence.Desmond's decision to become a conscientious objector was not an easy one. He faced backlash from his community, with some even calling him a coward. He was also met with resistance from the military, who saw his refusal to bear arms as a sign of weakness.However, Desmond remained steadfast in his beliefs. He believed that killing was wrong, and he did not want to compromise his values. With the help of his church, he was eventually granted the status of a non-combatant and allowed to serve in the military as a medic.

Basic Training: The Challenges of Military Life

Desmond's time in basic training was not easy. He faced ridicule and harassment from his fellow soldiers, who saw him as a liability. They would often taunt him, calling him a coward and questioning his ability to serve.Despite this, Desmond was determined to prove himself. He worked tirelessly to improve his physical fitness and learn the skills he needed to be an effective medic. He also refused to compromise his beliefs, even when it meant facing punishment.One particularly difficult moment came when Desmond was asked to participate in rifle practice. He refused to pick up a weapon, which resulted in him being court-martialed. However, his commanding officer recognized his bravery and determination and ultimately dropped the charges.

Battle of Okinawa: The Brutal Conflict that Defined a Hero

Desmond's true test came during the Battle of Okinawa, one of the bloodiest conflicts of World War II. The battle raged on for weeks, and the casualties were overwhelming. Desmond's unit was tasked with scaling a steep cliff known as Hacksaw Ridge, which had been heavily fortified by the enemy.Despite the danger, Desmond refused to back down. He risked his own life to save the lives of his fellow soldiers, dragging them to safety one by one. He worked tirelessly for hours, even after he was injured by a grenade.Desmond's actions during the Battle of Okinawa were nothing short of heroic. He saved the lives of at least 75 soldiers, all without carrying a weapon or firing a shot. His bravery and determination in the face of danger inspired his fellow soldiers and earned him the respect of the military.

Rescue Mission: Saving Lives on the Battlefield

Desmond's heroism during the Battle of Okinawa extended far beyond his actions on Hacksaw Ridge. He also participated in a risky rescue mission to save wounded soldiers who had been left behind.Despite facing heavy fire from the enemy, Desmond and a fellow soldier managed to evacuate several injured men. They carried them to safety one by one, all while under constant threat of attack.Desmond's willingness to risk his own life to save others was a testament to his selflessness and bravery. His actions during the Battle of Okinawa and the rescue mission proved that he was truly a hero.

Medal of Honor: Recognition for Extraordinary Bravery

Desmond's heroism did not go unnoticed. In October 1945, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor in the United States. He was the first conscientious objector to receive the award.The citation read in part, Private First Class Doss refused to seek cover and remained in the fire-swept area with the many stricken, carrying all 75 casualties one-by-one to the edge of the escarpment and there lowering them on a rope-supported litter down the face of a cliff to friendly hands.Desmond's bravery and dedication to serving his country were an inspiration to all who knew him. His unwavering faith and conviction in the face of adversity made him a true hero.

Life After War: Adjusting to Civilian Life

After the war, Desmond returned home to Lynchburg, Virginia. He struggled with PTSD and other mental health issues, as many veterans do. However, he continued to live his life with the same sense of purpose and conviction that had guided him during the war.Desmond married Dorothy Schutte in 1942, and they had one child together, a son named Desmond Jr. He worked as a carpenter and also spent time speaking to young people about his experiences during the war.Despite the challenges he faced, Desmond remained committed to his faith and his beliefs. He continued to live a life of service, always looking for ways to help others.

Faith and Conviction: The Influence of Religious Beliefs

Desmond's religious beliefs were at the core of everything he did. His commitment to nonviolence and his refusal to carry a weapon were rooted in his faith and his understanding of what it meant to be a Seventh-day Adventist.His faith also played a role in his heroism during the war. Desmond believed that God was with him on the battlefield, guiding him and protecting him. He would often pray before going into battle, asking for strength and courage.Desmond's faith and conviction were an inspiration to those around him. He showed that one could be both deeply religious and deeply patriotic, and that one's beliefs could guide them in all aspects of life.

Legacy and Impact: Inspiring Future Generations

Desmond's legacy continues to inspire people today. His story has been told in books, documentaries, and even a Hollywood film, all of which have helped to keep his memory alive.His heroism during the Battle of Okinawa and his commitment to his beliefs have inspired countless people to live a life of service and to stand up for what they believe in. He showed that one person can make a difference, even in the face of overwhelming odds.Desmond's legacy also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by all veterans. His willingness to put his own life on the line to save others is a testament to the bravery and selflessness of those who serve in the military.

Hollywood Adaptation: The Story Comes to the Big Screen

In 2016, Desmond's story was adapted into a Hollywood film called Hacksaw Ridge. The movie, directed by Mel Gibson, starred Andrew Garfield as Desmond and received critical acclaim.The film brought Desmond's story to a wider audience and helped to raise awareness of his heroism. It also served as a tribute to all veterans and their sacrifices.Desmond's life and legacy are a reminder of the power of faith, conviction, and selflessness. He showed that one person can make a difference, and that even in the darkest of times, there is hope for humanity. His story will continue to inspire future generations, and his memory will never be forgotten.

The Hero of Hacksaw Ridge: A Point of View

Overview

The Hero of Hacksaw Ridge is a biographical book about Desmond Doss, an American combat medic who served during World War II. The book chronicles his life from childhood to his experiences in the war, including his heroic actions during the Battle of Okinawa.

Pros of the Book

  1. The book provides a detailed and inspiring account of Desmond Doss' life and his bravery in the face of danger.
  2. The author, Booton Herndon, was a colleague of Doss and had access to personal interviews, making the book a reliable source of information.
  3. The book sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of the war, such as the role of conscientious objectors and the treatment of non-combatant soldiers.

Cons of the Book

  1. The book is heavily focused on Doss' personal life and may not appeal to readers who are looking for a more in-depth analysis of the war.
  2. Some readers may find the religious undertones in the book too prominent, as Doss' faith plays a significant role in his actions.
  3. The writing style may be dry and unengaging for some readers.

Comparison of the Book and the Movie

The Hero of Hacksaw Ridge was adapted into a movie in 2016, directed by Mel Gibson. While the movie stays true to the book's portrayal of Doss' heroism, there are some notable differences:

Book Movie
Doss is shown as a humble and selfless person, who never sought recognition for his actions. Doss is portrayed as more vocal about his beliefs and his desire to serve in the military without using a weapon.
The book devotes more time to Doss' childhood and his family life. The movie focuses more on Doss' experiences in the war and the battles he fought in.
The book portrays Doss as a shy and introverted person. The movie shows Doss as more outgoing and charismatic.

Conclusion

The Hero of Hacksaw Ridge is a compelling and inspiring book that offers readers a glimpse into the life of a true American hero. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate biographical works and stories of courage and selflessness will find it a worthwhile read.


Closing Message: The Hero of Hacksaw Ridge

Thank you for taking the time to read about the inspiring story of Desmond Doss, the hero of Hacksaw Ridge. I hope that this article has given you a glimpse into the courage, determination, and selflessness that defined Doss’s life and actions.

Desmond Doss was a conscientious objector who refused to carry a weapon during World War II, but his commitment to serving his country and his fellow soldiers led him to become a medic. Despite facing discrimination and ridicule from his fellow soldiers, Doss never wavered in his belief that he could make a difference without compromising his principles.

Doss’s bravery was put to the ultimate test during the Battle of Okinawa, where he single-handedly saved the lives of 75 wounded soldiers while under heavy fire. His devotion to his comrades, his unwavering faith, and his incredible physical endurance enabled him to accomplish what many thought was impossible.

But Doss’s heroism did not end on the battlefield. After the war, he continued to dedicate his life to helping others, working as a counselor and advocating for veterans’ rights. He passed away in 2006 at the age of 87, but his legacy lives on as a testament to the power of compassion and conviction.

If there is one lesson to be learned from Doss’s story, it is that one person can make a difference. Even in the face of overwhelming adversity, even when it seems like the odds are against us, we have the power to stand up for what we believe in and to help others in need.

Throughout his life, Doss faced many challenges and obstacles, but he never gave up. He remained true to his beliefs and his values, even when it meant putting himself in harm’s way. His story serves as a reminder that true heroism is not about being fearless, but about having the courage to act in spite of our fears.

I hope that Doss’s story has inspired you to look for the hero within yourself. We all have the potential to make a difference in the world, whether it’s through our actions, our words, or our kindness. Let us honor Desmond Doss’s legacy by striving to be the best versions of ourselves and by never giving up on our dreams.

Thank you again for reading about the hero of Hacksaw Ridge. I encourage you to share this story with others and to continue learning about the extraordinary individuals who have shaped our world through their courage and compassion.

Remember, no matter how small our actions may seem, they can have a ripple effect that extends far beyond what we can imagine. Let us all strive to be heroes in our own way, and to make a positive impact on the world around us.

Thank you, and may we all find the strength to face our challenges with the same bravery and determination as Desmond Doss.


People Also Ask About Hero of Hacksaw Ridge Book

Who is the Hero of Hacksaw Ridge?

The hero of Hacksaw Ridge is Desmond Doss, a United States Army corporal who served as a combat medic during World War II. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Battle of Okinawa.

Is the Book Based on a True Story?

Yes, the book is based on the true story of Desmond Doss and his experiences during World War II. The author, Booton Herndon, conducted interviews with Doss and other soldiers who served with him to write the book.

What is the Book About?

The book tells the story of Desmond Doss and his journey from small-town Virginia to the battlefields of World War II. Despite being a conscientious objector and refusing to carry a weapon, Doss became a hero by saving the lives of his fellow soldiers without firing a single shot.

Is the Book Worth Reading?

Yes, the book is definitely worth reading, especially if you are interested in stories of heroism and bravery during wartime. It provides a unique perspective on the war and the role that non-combatants played in the conflict.

Are There Any Other Books or Movies About Desmond Doss?

Yes, there are several other books and movies about Desmond Doss. The most famous is the movie Hacksaw Ridge directed by Mel Gibson, which was released in 2016 and won two Academy Awards. There is also a documentary called The Conscientious Objector that was released in 2004.

What Lessons Can Be Learned from Desmond Doss's Story?

Desmond Doss's story teaches us about the importance of standing up for our beliefs and values, even in the face of adversity. It also shows us that bravery and heroism can come from unexpected places and that there are many ways to serve and protect our country.