Introduction
Ever since I can remember, I've always
had an incredible appreciation for those who came before us, and fought
and died for our freedom. Every single time I am fortunate enough to
listen to the national anthem of our country, I make sure to say a
"thank you" in my mind to those who have preserved, and continue to
preserve the freedom we are so lucky to have. Our freedom is something
I feel we often take for granted, with a sense of security and knowing
it will always be there. I have always wished I could go back in time
and thank all of those who gave their lives, as it would be just the
smallest form of gratitude that these men and women deserve.
I recently watched Band of Brothers,
an HBO mini series, and it had an extremely powerful impact on me.
While watching the series, I found myself developing a greater and
greater appreciation for not only the men of Easy Company(the featured
squad in Band of Brothers) but also for all of those who fought for the
United States and the Allies in World War II. It is incredible for me
to watch what these men did, what they experienced, and above all the
perseverance they showed during these nearly unbearable moments.
Through physical hardships, mental hardships, and emotional hardships,
they never gave up and continued to fight for the cause they knew was
right. Many people, perhaps even most people would not have the courage
and determination to do what they've done, and I feel they deserve
tremendous respect for that.
Fortunately for me, almost immediately
after finishing watching the Band of Brothers series I was enrolled in
Mythology and Folklore, and have decided to use my storybook as a means
to say "thank you" to those who fought for our freedom. While my
appreciations go out to all those who fought and gave their lives for
our our country, for this assignment I will focus my attention to tell
the stories of a few brave men who earned the Medal of Honor for their
heroic efforts during the Second World War. The Medal of Honor is the
highest military decoration awarded by the United States government,
being given to those who have distinguished him or herself
"conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his [or her]
life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action
against an enemy of the United States." The award is presented to the
recipient by the President of the United States.
As you read, I hope you also will
continue to develop a greater feeling of appreciation for these great
heroes, as without them our country and the world may not be as we have
it today. The remaining generation of living WWII heroes is
unfortunately coming to an end, but I feel it is our duty to continue
to share their stories and experiences. For the amount of sacrifice
they have given to us, our country, and the world, it is the least bit
we can do for them in return. I hope you enjoy my storybook, and I
encourage you all to continue to learn more about what these great
heroes have done for us. It is truly remarkable to read about such
great things, and also very inspirational.
Sergeant Henry "Red" Erwin earned the
Medal of Honor for his heroic actions onboard a B-29 aircraft with his
crew while carrying out an attack on Koriyama, Japan. Learn how Erwin
saved himself and his crew after a bomb failed to properly exit the
plane. Henry "Red" Erwin
There
are quite a few war stories regarding two brothers, however I can
guarentee you have never heard one like this! Learn the story of Medal
of
Honor hero Walter D. Ethers and
his elder brother Roland in their couragous journeys at Omaha Beach. Walter Ehlers
Jack Lucas wasn't your poster child Medal of Honor recipient, but his
story is one that you don't want to miss! Read about his life risking
actions that saved the lives of three of his fellow Marines on a small
island in the Pacific.
Jack Lucas
