Who is the Most Decorated Soldier in US History?
The United States military has a long and storied history of valiant service members who have put their lives on the line to protect their country and its interests. Among the many brave and talented soldiers who have served the United States, one man stands out as the most decorated soldier in US history: Sergeant Alvin York.
Early Life and Service
Alvin Cullum York was born on December 13, 1887, in Pall Mall, Tennessee. Growing up in a rural farming community, York was forced to drop out of school in the eighth grade to help support his family after his father’s death. Despite these humble beginnings, York had a strong desire to serve his country. In 1914, he enlisted in the Tennessee National Guard, where he rose to the rank of corporal.
The War Effort
York’s military career took a dramatic turn when the United States entered World War I in 1917. He was sent to Europe as part of the American Expeditionary Forces, where he served as a machine gunner in the 307th Infantry Regiment of the 77th Division.
The Battle of Chamdrige
It was during the Battle of Chatel-Chehery on October 8, 1918, that York’s heroism earned him his numerous decorations. His unit was tasked with taking a German stronghold in the town of Chamdrige, but they found themselves pinned down by enemy fire. York, recognizing that the only way to secure the objective was to take out the German machine guns, volunteered to make a solo charge against the enemy positions.
Bold Action
York advanced solo against the German machine gun nest, using his carbine to take out three of the six enemy soldiers. He then seized one of the machine guns and began firing it at the remaining Germans, killing nine more. With the position now under his control, York continued to push forward, taking out several more German soldiers and eventually liberating 132 prisoners of war.
Consequence
York’s bravery on that day earned him no fewer than 21 awards and decorations, including the Medal of Honor, which is the highest military honor in the United States. Here is a breakdown of his awards:
- Medal of Honor
- Distinguished Service Cross
- Silver Star
- Army Distinguished Service Medal
- French Croix de Guerre
- British Military Medal
- Belge Croix de Guerre
- Italian Medaglia d’Onore
- 4 awards of the French Médaille militaire
- 5 awards of the United States Army Good Conduct Medal
- 4 awards of the American Expeditionary Forces Campaign Medal
- 4 awards of the French Fourragère
Post-War Career
After the war, York returned to the United States and became a legendary figure, celebrated for his heroism and selflessness. He was a tireless advocate for the Boy Scouts of America, earning him the rank of Vice President of the organization. He also worked as a farmhand and a sales representative, eventually opening his own hardware store.
Legacy
Sergeant Alvin York’s legacy is one of courage and patriotism. His story serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of America’s military personnel, past and present. York’s awards and decorations are on display at the Sergeant Alvin C. York Camp in Pall Mall, Tennessee, where visitors can learn more about his life and heroic actions.
Timeline of Awards and Decorations
Here is a list of York’s awards and decorations in chronological order:
- Medal of Honor (November 1918)
- Distinguished Service Cross (November 1918)
- Silver Star (December 1918)
- Army Distinguished Service Medal (January 1919)
- French Croix de Guerre (November 1918)
- British Military Medal (1919)
- Belge Croix de Guerre (1920)
- Italian Medaglia d’Onore (1921)
- 4 awards of the French Médaille militaire (1920)
- 5 awards of the United States Army Good Conduct Medal (1917-1921)
- 4 awards of the American Expeditionary Forces Campaign Medal (1917-1921)
- 4 awards of the French Fourragère (1921)
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sergeant Alvin C. York is the most decorated soldier in US history, with a total of 21 awards and decorations for his bravery and heroism during World War I. His story is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of America’s military personnel, and serves as an inspiration to all those who serve and have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Here is a summary of his achievements:
- Awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor in the United States
- Earned 20 additional awards and decorations for bravery and heroism
- Led a solo charge against a German machine gun nest, taking out 26 enemy soldiers and liberating 132 prisoners of war
- Recognized for his exceptional leadership and bravery on the battlefield
- Left a lasting legacy as a hero and advocate for the Boy Scouts of America and other charitable organizations.
