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Calvin GrahamYoungest American veteran of World War II
Date of Birth: 03.04.1930
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Calvin Graham: The Youngest American Veteran of World War II
- Challenges and Redemption
- Recognition and Legacy
Calvin Graham: The Youngest American Veteran of World War II
Calvin Leon Graham, born in 1930 in Canton, Texas, entered history as the youngest veteran of World War II. At the age of 12, after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Calvin volunteered for service in the U.S. Navy in 1942. Determined to fight, he hid his real age when enlisting. Serving aboard the USS South Dakota during the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, Calvin displayed remarkable bravery and was wounded in action. For his heroism, he was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. However, his true age and deception were later discovered, resulting in his dismissal from the military.
Challenges and Redemption
In May 1943, Calvin was dishonorably discharged, stripped of military honors, and lost his medical benefits and disability allowance. At the age of 17, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps, but his service was short-lived due to a spinal injury sustained from falling off a pier.
Despite being considered a war veteran, Calvin spent the rest of his life fighting to regain his rights to benefits and privileges. In 1978, with the support of President Jimmy Carter, he finally regained his military benefits. However, he was never able to retrieve his Purple Heart medal. In 1988, his story gained widespread attention, and a film titled "Too Young the Hero" was made, featuring actor Rick Schroder portraying young Calvin.
Recognition and Legacy
In 1988, Calvin's life took another turn with the involvement of President Ronald Reagan, who ensured that all his outstanding hospital bills were paid. Later, with the assistance of President Bill Clinton, Calvin was finally awarded his Purple Heart, but unfortunately, he passed away before receiving it. Calvin Graham lived until the age of 62, passing away in 1992 in Fort Worth, Texas. In the United States, he is remembered as the youngest veteran of World War II.
