Army Soldiers Who Did Great Things

A true soldier possesses certain character traits that make them truly special. These characteristics are loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. Over the years, members of the Army have displayed these traits and achieved amazing things while serving our country. Do you know the story of these important Army soldiers?

Clem changed his middle name from Joseph to Lincoln before attempting to enlist in the Union Army during the Civil War when he was just nine years old. After being rejected initially, he made it into the 22nd Michigan Volunteer Infantry and killed a Confederate officer who demanded his surrender. Clem was promoted to sergeant before being discharged in 1864. He made his return to the army in 1871 and rose to major general before his retirement in 1915. We don’t know many nine-year-olds are prepared for war today, but we’re thankful for Maj. Gen. Clem’s dedication to this country.

A “Harlem Hellfigher” during World War I, Johnson found himself in a fight in the Argonne Forest. A dozen German soldiers attacked him and his buddy. Sgt. Johnson was able to hold them off with grenades and rifle fire. When he ran out of ammo, he finished off his attackers with a knife and saved the rest of his unit. President Barack Obama posthumously awarded Johnson a Congressional Medal of Honor; President Bill Clinton posthumously awarded him a Purple Heart. In 2003, the Distinguished Service Cross, the Army’s second highest award, was presented to his son, Herman A. Johnson, a Tuskegee Airman, on behalf of his father. The French government also awarded Johnson the Croix de guerre; he was the first American to receive the award.

A West Point graduate, General Patton commanded the army in World War II in the Mediterranean and in France and Germany after D-Day. Although his public statements and motivational speeches to his soldiers were somewhat controversial, today, he is regarded as an American folk hero. During his time in the Army, Gen. Patton earned a Purple Heart, Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal, and Legion of Merit. Patton is the subject of several full-length motion pictures that celebrate his achievements and his big personality.

Audie Murphy is considered the greatest combat soldier in the history of the United States. Although he passed away at only 46 years old, his legend lives on today in his Hollywood movie roles. At just 5’5” tall and 110 pounds, Murphy was refused enlistment in both the Marines and paratroopers during World War II. That was their loss, and the Army gladly accepted him. His first assignment was to the 15th Infantry Regiment of the 3rd Infantry Division, where he fought in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France, and Germany. He earned a battlefield commission for his courage and leadership, as well as every possible medal for valor that the United States awarded. He also earned three French medals and a Belgian medal, making him the most decorated soldier in American history. 

Rickenbacker was the most successful American fighter ace in the Army during World War I, with 26 aerial victories. During his time in the Army, he earned the Junior Military Aviator Badge, Medal of Honor, Army Distinguished Service Cross, Medal for Merit, World War I Victory Medal, Legion of Honor from France, and the Croix de guerre from France. Rickenbacker also is famous for his careers as a race car driver, automotive designer, and the long-time leader of Eastern Air Lines.

Although we cannot thank these Army legends in person, we can continue to honor their legacy and dedication by remembering them on Memorial Day and Veterans’ Day. Today’s soldiers are also deserving of our acknowledgement, which is why My Hero Crate was born into existence.

My Hero Crate makes it easy to say “thank you” to any member of the American armed forces. Simply purchase a military care package on our website, and we’ll ship it directly to your favorite soldier, no matter where in the world they’re stationed. Each military care package contains a variety of snacks suitable for any dietary need, and all contents are military-approved. 

Place your order today to thank your personal hero.