Johann Hunt
Several military figures have demonstrated extraordinary valor throughout American history, yet some remain absent from the spotlight. While Hollywood has immortalized heroes like Audie Murphy and Chris Kyle, countless others have performed equally compelling feats deserving of recognition. This list refreshes our memories as we look at the stories of these unsung American heroes and their sacrifices.
Pedro Rodríguez
Master Sergeant Pedro Rodríguez, born in Puerto Rico, served valiantly with the 65th Infantry Regiment during both World War II and the Korean War. In March 1951, he earned two Silver Stars within a week for leading successful assaults on enemy positions. His regiment, known as the “Borinqueneers,” was later awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014.
Charity Adams Earley
Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams Earley led the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female unit deployed overseas during World War II. Under her command, the battalion cleared a massive backlog of mail in Europe, boosting soldier morale. Despite facing racial and gender biases, Earley’s leadership was instrumental in the unit’s success, earning them posthumous Congressional Gold Medals in 2022.
Thomas Green
Brigadier General Thomas Green, originally from Virginia, played a huge role in the Texas Revolution and the Civil War. At the Battle of San Jacinto, he operated the “Twin Sisters” cannons, contributing to the decisive victory. Later, as a Confederate general, he led successful cavalry charges, notably at the Battle of Valverde. His tactical prowess left a lasting impact on the military strategies of the era.
Mary E. Walker
Dr. Mary E. Walker served as a contract surgeon during conflicts, often crossing battle lines to treat the wounded. Captured by Confederate forces, she endured months in a prison camp. In recognition of her dedication, she became the only woman to receive the Medal of Honor. The American College of Surgeons also has an award named after her.
Marcelino Serna
Private Marcelino Serna, a Mexican immigrant, enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War I. Despite facing discrimination, he became one of the most decorated soldiers of the war. At the Battle of Saint-Mihiel, he single-handedly captured 24 German soldiers. For his bravery, he received several military decorations and in 2022, he was posthumously awarded the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor.
Susan Ahn Cuddy
Lieutenant Susan Ahn Cuddy became the first Asian American woman to join the U.S. Navy during World War II. She broke racial and gender barriers by becoming the Navy’s first female gunnery officer, training male pilots in weaponry. Her pioneering service paved the way for greater diversity in the armed forces.
Roy Benavidez
Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez displayed extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War. In 1968, he rescued a 12-man Special Forces team under heavy enemy fire, sustaining multiple wounds. His six-hour ordeal, rightly named “Six Hours in Hell”, saved numerous lives, earning him the Medal of Honor. He has several buildings and even a U.S. Navy Cargo ship named after him.
Henry Johnson
Private Henry Johnson, serving with the all-Black 369th Infantry Regiment in World War I, single-handedly fought off a German raiding party, saving his comrade and preventing a breach in the line. Despite severe injuries, he continued to fight, earning several military honors. His bravery was posthumously recognized with the Medal of Honor in 2015.
Jacklyn H. Lucas
Private First Class Jacklyn H. Lucas, at 17, became the youngest Marine to receive the Medal of Honor during World War II. At Iwo Jima, he shielded his fellow Marines from two grenades, absorbing the blasts himself. Amazingly, he survived, exemplifying bravery and the spirit of self-sacrifice. In 2023, the U.S. Navy commissioned the USS Jack H. Lucas.
Ruben Rivers
Staff Sergeant Ruben Rivers served with the 761st Tank Battalion, an African American unit in World War II. Despite a severe leg wound, he refused evacuation and continued leading his tank platoon in combat. Although he was killed in action, his bravery was instrumental in battle, earning him a Medal of Honor in 1997.
Deborah Sampson
Disguised as a man, Deborah Sampson enlisted in the Continental Army during the American Revolution. She served for over a year, participating in several skirmishes and sustaining injuries. Her courage challenged gender norms and highlighted women’s capabilities in combat. Massachusetts has an award and a day celebrated in her honor.
Daniel Inouye
Second Lieutenant Daniel Inouye, of Japanese descent, served with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team during WWII. In Italy, he led an assault on a heavily defended ridge, destroying multiple enemy positions despite severe wounds, including the loss of his arm. He received the Medal of Honor and later served as a U.S. Senator.
Joseph H. DeCastro
Corporal Joseph H. DeCastro, serving with the 19th Massachusetts Infantry during the Civil War, distinguished himself at the Battle of Gettysburg. In Grosshau, Germany, he single-handedly eliminated six enemy soldiers, captured four others, and dismantled the enemy fortifications with grenades. For his actions, he became the first Hispanic American to receive the Medal of Honor.
Michael Fitzmaurice
Michael John Fitzmaurice served as a Specialist Fourth Class in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. On March 23, 1971, he shielded fellow soldiers from an enemy explosive with his flak vest and body, sustaining serious injuries. Despite partial blindness, Fitzmaurice continued fighting, even engaging an enemy combatant barehanded. He received the Medal of Honor and the Purple Heart for his valor.
John Stein
Tony Stein served as a Corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve during World War II. During the 1945 Battle of Iwo Jima, he used a modified aircraft machine gun to neutralize enemy positions, allowing his unit to advance. He was awarded the Medal of Honor, and the U.S. Navy named the USS Stein in his honor.