Who was the Most Decorated Soldier?
The question of who was the most decorated soldier is a matter of great debate among military historians and enthusiasts. However, according to various sources, including the Guinness World Records, the most decorated soldier in history is Audie Murphy, an American soldier who served in World War II.
Early Life and Military Service
Audie Murphy was born on June 20, 1924, in Kingston, Texas. He grew up in a poor family and dropped out of school in the eighth grade to work and support his family. When the United States entered World War II, Murphy enlisted in the Army in 1942 at the age of 18.
Murphy’s military service was marked by bravery and distinction. He served in the 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, and saw action in North Africa, Sicily, and Italy. He was wounded three times and was awarded the Purple Heart on each occasion.
Decorations and Awards
Murphy’s decorations and awards are a testament to his bravery and heroism. He was awarded a total of 33 medals and awards, including:
- Medal of Honor: The highest military honor awarded by the United States, for his actions on January 26, 1945, during the Colmar Pocket campaign in France.
- Distinguished Service Cross: The second-highest military honor awarded by the United States, for his actions on June 5, 1944, during the invasion of Normandy.
- Silver Star: Awarded for bravery in action on three separate occasions.
- Bronze Star: Awarded for bravery in action on two separate occasions.
- Purple Heart: Awarded for wounds received in action on three separate occasions.
- French Legion of Honor: Awarded by the French government for his bravery and heroism during the war.
The Medal of Honor
Murphy’s Medal of Honor citation reads:
"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty:
On 26 January 1945, during the Colmar Pocket campaign, Audie Murphy distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. With his platoon reduced to 19 men, and with an enemy force estimated to be several hundred strong, Murphy single-handedly held off the enemy and enabled his platoon to withdraw to a more advantageous position. He then returned to his platoon and led the attack that drove the enemy from the town of Holtzwihr. Throughout the day, Murphy continued to lead his platoon with great bravery and skill, and his actions inspired his men to fight with great courage and determination."
After the War
After the war, Murphy returned to the United States and became a celebrity, known for his bravery and heroism. He was also a successful actor, starring in over 40 films, including the classic Western "The Cimarron Kid".
Legacy
Audie Murphy’s legacy is one of bravery, heroism, and selflessness. He is an inspiration to soldiers and civilians alike, and his decorations and awards are a testament to his unwavering commitment to duty and country.
Comparison to Other Decorated Soldiers
While Audie Murphy is widely recognized as the most decorated soldier in history, there are other soldiers who have also received numerous decorations and awards. Some notable examples include:
- General Douglas MacArthur: A five-star general who received the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and numerous other awards and decorations.
- General Omar Bradley: A five-star general who received the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and numerous other awards and decorations.
- Sergeant Alvin York: A World War I soldier who received the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and numerous other awards and decorations.
Table: Audie Murphy’s Decorations and Awards
Decoration | Awarded For |
---|---|
Medal of Honor | Actions on January 26, 1945, during the Colmar Pocket campaign |
Distinguished Service Cross | Actions on June 5, 1944, during the invasion of Normandy |
Silver Star | Actions on three separate occasions |
Bronze Star | Actions on two separate occasions |
Purple Heart | Wounds received in action on three separate occasions |
French Legion of Honor | Bravery and heroism during World War II |
Conclusion
Audie Murphy is widely recognized as the most decorated soldier in history, with a total of 33 medals and awards. His bravery and heroism during World War II are an inspiration to soldiers and civilians alike, and his legacy continues to be celebrated to this day.