The Medal of Honor Journey of Desmond Doss and the Heroic Saga of 'Hacksaw Ridge'

Private Desmond Doss entered the most harrowing battle of World War II in the Pacific, armed only with his unwavering faith and Bible. As a committed Seventh Day Adventist and conscientious objector, Doss enlisted as a medic, steadfastly refusing to carry a rifle.

The intense combat unfolded on the nightmarish Maeda Escarpment in April 1945, perched on a sheer 400-foot cliff known as Hacksaw Ridge. This strategically vital battlefield, fortified with Japanese machine gun nests and booby traps, played a pivotal role in the Battle of Okinawa. Deemed nearly impossible, when Doss's unit faced orders to retreat, he chose to stay and rescue his fallen comrades.

Amidst relentless machine gun and artillery fire, Doss fearlessly ventured alone into the danger zone, rescuing wounded soldiers. Each life saved was accompanied by a fervent prayer: "Lord, please help me get one more." By night's end, he had saved approximately 75 men, though his humble estimate was 50, while his comrades believed it neared 100.

The gripping tale unfolded on the big screen in Mel Gibson's "Hacksaw Ridge," with Andrew Garfield portraying Doss. The film received acclaim and criticism for its raw realism, vividly depicting the brutality of war.

Doss, a man of deep faith and courage, emerged from Lynchburg, Va., where his upbringing shaped his convictions. The movie portrays his captivating childhood fascination with the Ten Commandments, influenced by his father's struggles with alcoholism and war-induced PTSD.

The film's accuracy impressed Doss's son, Desmond Jr., who highlighted his father's reluctance to entrust Hollywood with his story due to accuracy concerns.

Doss's unwavering commitment to nonviolence faced challenges during basic training, where he endured abuse and attempts to have him discharged. Deploying with the 307th Infantry, 77th Infantry Division, in 1944, he served in Guam and the Philippines before the Battle of Okinawa. Despite severe injuries, Doss received the Medal of Honor from President Truman, becoming the first conscientious objector honored.

Doss's post-war years were marked by recovery, devoted service to his church, and a commitment to peace. Desmond Jr. reflects on his father's legacy, finding solace in the lives saved and the profound impact on grateful descendants.

Read more here:
Official Desmond Doss Website
National WWII Museum - P1C Desmond Thomas Doss and the Medal of Honor