A True Hero
Calvin Leon Graham (April 3, 1930 – November 6, 1992) was the youngest U.S. serviceman to serve and fight during World War II. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, he enlisted in the United States Navy from Houston, Texas on August 15, 1942, at the age of 12.
Calvin Leon Graham
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![]() Seaman First Class Calvin Graham in 1942
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Born | April 3, 1930 Canton, Texas |
Died | November 6, 1992 (aged 62) Fort Worth, Texas |
Allegiance | United States of America |
Service/ |
United States Navy United States Marine Corps |
Years of service | 1942–1943 1948–1951 |
Rank | Seaman first class – USN Corporal – USMC[1] |
Unit | USS South Dakota |
Battles/wars | World War II |
Awards | ![]() ![]() |
Graham’s decorations and military awards, as finally settled circa 1994 after intervention by Presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton:
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1st Row | Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” | |||||
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2nd Row | Purple Heart Medal | Navy Unit Commendation with service star |
American Campaign Medal | |||
3rd Row | Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two service stars |
World War II Victory Medal | National Defense Service Medal |