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Conscientious Objector Becomes Unlikely WWII Hero
12 Oct
Summary
- Desmond Doss refused to carry a gun during WWII
- Doss personally saved 75 wounded soldiers under enemy fire
- Doss' heroics were so extraordinary they had to be toned down for the film
In 2025, the film Hacksaw Ridge continues to captivate audiences with the true story of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who became an unlikely WWII hero. Doss resisted several attempts to adapt his life for the big screen, insisting on accuracy. While the film is not a complete picture of his life, his heroics on the battlefield are 100% genuine.
Remarkably, the filmmakers had to tone down some of Doss' actions because they felt they would be too unbelievable. It's estimated that Doss personally saved the lives of 75 wounded soldiers by carrying them to safety while dodging enemy fire. One scene that was cut involved Doss' 300-yard crawl to safety after he was seriously wounded himself.
Despite having no powers or enhanced strength, Doss' deeply held religious convictions made him a more heroic character than even Spider-Man. Actor Andrew Garfield's portrayal of Doss' humility and bravery on the battlefield was widely praised, earning him an Oscar nomination.
