How Old Was Audie Murphy When He Joined The Army?

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The Early Life of Audie Murphy

Audie Murphy was born in Kingston, Texas on June 20, 1925. He was the seventh of twelve children born to Emmett Berry Murphy and Josie Bell Killian. His family was very poor, and their farm struggled to make ends meet during the Great Depression. Audie's father abandoned the family when he was just a child, leaving his mother to raise the children alone. Despite these challenges, Audie was a determined and hardworking child. He helped his family by hunting and trapping in the nearby woods, and he also worked odd jobs to earn money. However, he struggled in school and dropped out after completing the fifth grade.

Joining the Army

Audie was just 17 years old when he tried to join the Marines in 1942. However, he was rejected due to his small stature and low weight. Undeterred, he then tried to join the paratroopers, but he was once again turned away. Finally, in June 1942, Audie was able to join the Army. He lied about his age and claimed to be 18 years old, the minimum age required for enlistment. He was assigned to the 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, and began his training at Camp Wolters in Texas.

Training and Deployment

Audie's training was rigorous and demanding, but he quickly proved himself to be a skilled and disciplined soldier. He was sent to Europe in 1943, where he fought in some of the most brutal battles of World War II. Audie's first taste of combat came in 1944 during the Allied invasion of Sicily. He then fought in Italy, where he earned a Bronze Star for his bravery in battle. He was later wounded in France, but he returned to the front lines just a few weeks later.

The Most Decorated Soldier of World War II

Audie Murphy went on to become one of the most decorated soldiers of World War II. He received numerous awards and honors for his bravery and valor in battle, including the Medal of Honor, the Army Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, and three Purple Hearts. Despite his many achievements, Audie struggled with the psychological toll of war. He suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and was haunted by the memories of his experiences in combat.

Life After the Army

After the war, Audie struggled to readjust to civilian life. He turned to acting and appeared in numerous films and television shows, including "To Hell and Back," which chronicled his own experiences in World War II. Audie also became an advocate for veterans' rights and mental health awareness. He spoke openly about his struggles with PTSD and worked to raise awareness about the condition.

The Legacy of Audie Murphy

Audie Murphy passed away on May 28, 1971, when he was just 46 years old. However, his legacy lives on as one of the greatest American heroes of all time. Audie's bravery and dedication to his country continue to inspire generations of Americans. His story is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and courage in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Audie Murphy was just 17 years old when he joined the Army in 1942. He lied about his age to enlist, and he went on to become one of the most decorated soldiers of World War II. Despite the many challenges he faced, Audie remained a dedicated and courageous soldier throughout his military career. His legacy as a hero and an advocate for veterans' rights continues to inspire people around the world today.