Desmond Doss was an unassuming army medic often ridiculed for his stance on non-violent approaches to military service. His army colleagues often threw boots at him when he knelt for prayer. He was called a coward and other names for his firm stance as a noncombatant conscientious objector. Yet, in 1945, at the Battle of Okinawa, Desmond Doss saved the lives of 75 men. He braved enemy fire, snipers, and an inhospitable terrain to save lives.
For such valor and courage, he received some of the highest military honors. President Harry S. Truman awarded Doss the Medal of Honor on October 12, 1945.
This service came at a price. Doss was wounded and evacuated from battle. Seventeen pieces of shrapnel were present after his gallant rescue missions. For the next five- and-a-half years, Doss underwent medical treatments that eventually culminated in him losing his hearing.
Such an amazing life story reminds us that service comes at a price. Jesus Christ Himself offered His life for the salvation of humanity. What a beautiful example to follow and legacy to remember.
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