Rodger Young

Rodger Young was a remarkable United States Army infantryman hailing from Tiffin, Ohio. Born on April twenty-eighth, nineteen eighteen, he faced significant challenges early in life, suffering a sports injury in high school that left him nearly deaf and blind. Despite these obstacles, Young demonstrated exceptional determination and successfully passed the necessary exams to join the Ohio National Guard.

With the onset of World War II, Young's company was activated into the U.S. Army. His bravery and commitment to his fellow soldiers were put to the ultimate test in nineteen forty-three when he was killed on the island of New Georgia in the Solomon Islands. Young's selfless actions during a Japanese ambush, where he helped his platoon withdraw to safety, earned him the United States' highest military honor, the Medal of Honor, awarded posthumously.

In tribute to his heroism, the renowned songwriter Frank Loesser composed 'The Ballad of Rodger Young,' a poignant war song inspired by Young's Medal of Honor citation. His legacy continues to be honored through various memorials, including the night infiltration course at Fort Benning and a small arms firing range at Camp Perry. Additionally, Rodger Young Village, a veteran's living community established near Laguna, California, stands as a testament to his enduring impact, even though it has since been replaced by a freeway.