Alvin Cullum York: A True Hero

On December 18th, 1887, Alvin Cullum York was born in Pall Mall, Tennessee. 30 years later he was drafted for the first world war on June 5th, 1917. During his time spent in the war he received many medals including a Medal of Honor and was promoted to sergeant for capturing over 132 German soldiers. He is considered a hero for the numerous things he did and was one of the most decorated United States soldiers in World War 1.
When Alvin's father died he assisted in caring for the younger siblings. Because of this Alvin grew up being a leader figure and a good role model to his siblings. Growing up he wasn't in school a lot and helped to provide for his family by hunting, fishing, and hiring for labor. He came into the army already knowing how to take guns apart and put them back together, how to clean them, how to shoot and even determine bullet drop. He even knew how to bandage a wound to stop continuous bleeding. Being this skilled,
After his squad was ambushed and over half of them killed he still chose to fight back in a life or death attempt to save him and his remaining squad. He captured 35 machine gun nests and killed 25 German soldiers. After the German commanding officer missed Alvin with his pistol he surrendered and was taken prisoner along with his remaining 132 soldiers. When they finally returned to base he was immediately promoted and given a Medal of Honor for his bravery on the battlefield and went on to receive decorations from France, Italy, and Montenegro.
The multiple brave and courageous things that Alvin did during the war and the skills he taught his squad/ teammates is what truly made him the hero he was. If it weren't for him hundreds of Ally soldiers would have been captured and sent to war camps. Alvin lived to 77 years old until he died in his home in Nashville on September 2, 1964. May he rest in peace and be remembered for his courageous acts during his call of