[October 02, 2014] During World War I, on October 02, 1918, a true American hero gallantly led his men in the Argonne Forest offensive. Attorney by trade before the war, Major Charles Whittlesey was the uncompromising commander of what became known as the “Lost Battalion.”
Major Whittlesey’s battalion was so named because shortly after his unit crossed into hostile enemy-held territory; it was cut off and surrounded by German forces1. Despite being low on food, water, and ammunition, and being offered the chance to surrender, his unit fought on. Five days later his unit was rescued by Allied forces.
During those five days, Major Whittlesey held his ground and fought on against increasingly grim odds. Out of 600 men, only 194 of the Americans were still standing – among them Whittlesey. He was later awarded America’s Medal of Honor for extreme bravery and coolness under fire. Tragically he was haunted by the war. Later in 1921 he committed suicide by throwing himself off a ship as it sailed toward Cuba.
Charles Whittlesey is a true American hero. We salute him and his men for their bravery and service to the nation.
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[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_White_Whittlesey