American Soldier Roddie Edmonds to Receive Medal of Honor for WWII Bravery

Roddie Edmonds, an American soldier who played a pivotal role in saving the lives of 200 Jewish comrades during World War II, is set to be awarded the Medal of Honor, the United States military's highest decoration. This recognition comes posthumously, as Edmonds passed away in 1985. His courageous actions occurred in January 1945 during the Battle of the Bulge, when he and his fellow soldiers were captured by Nazi forces in a prisoner of war camp in Germany.

Times of Israel

Faced with a demand from the Nazis to identify the Jewish soldiers among them, Edmonds made a decisive stand. He instructed all soldiers to present themselves as Jews, famously declaring, “We are all Jews here!” This act of solidarity was not widely known until years after his death, when a Jewish survivor from the camp shared the story publicly in a 2008 article.

Times of Israel

Edmonds' bravery was first recognized by Israel's Holocaust memorial, Yad Vashem, which honored him as one of the "Righteous Among the Nations," a title given to non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. His legacy has been celebrated by multiple U.S. presidents, including Barack Obama, who remarked on the profound nature of Edmonds' actions, and Donald Trump, who recounted the story during a Veterans Day parade in 2019.

Times of Israel

The campaign for Edmonds to receive the Medal of Honor was led by his family, including his son, Chris Edmonds, and his granddaughters. Their efforts were met with bipartisan support, culminating in the recent announcement of the award.

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Chris Edmonds expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating that it honors not only his father but also the soldiers who were saved. President Trump personally invited Chris to the White House to present the Medal of Honor on behalf of his father.

Times of Israel

The Medal of Honor ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 2, marking a significant moment in honoring Roddie Edmonds' legacy and the sacrifices made during one of history's darkest periods.

Times of Israel

• “We are all Jews here!” — Roddie Edmonds

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• “I cannot imagine a greater expression of Christianity than to say, I, too, am a Jew,” — Barack Obama, Former U.S. President

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• “Master Sergeant Edmonds saved 200 Jewish-Americans — soldiers that day.” — Donald Trump, Former U.S. President

Times of Israel

This recognition serves as a reminder of the courage displayed by individuals like Roddie Edmonds during the Holocaust and the importance of standing against oppression.

Times of Israel