The youngest U.S. serviceman to serve and fight during World War II was Calvin Graham. He enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 12 and served as a gunner on the USS South Dakota.
Graham lied about his age and joined in August 1942. He participated in the Battle of Guadalcanal, during which he was hit by shrapnel while delivering a message to an officer. Despite being wounded himself, Graham actively aided in rescue efforts by helping to bring the wounded aboard the ship and ensuring their safety.
As a result of his bravery, Graham was initially awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart. However, when it was discovered that he had falsified his age, these honors were revoked. Consequently, he was dishonorably discharged from the Navy on April 1, 1943. Nevertheless, all of his medals were eventually posthumously reinstated by 1994.
Discover more from KossyDerrickent
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
