Who was Desmond Doss?

Desmond Doss was a conscientious objector during World War II who refused to carry a gun, but went on to become a hero by personally saving 75 wounded soldiers under enemy fire.

What happened to Desmond Doss on the battlefield?

Doss' heroic actions were so extraordinary that the filmmakers of Hacksaw Ridge had to tone them down, including a 300-yard crawl to safety after he was seriously wounded.

How did Desmond Doss' religious beliefs impact his service?

Doss' deeply held religious convictions made him a more heroic character than even Spider-Man, as he risked his life to save others without using a weapon.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Conscientious Objector Becomes Unlikely WWII Hero

Conscientious Objector Becomes Unlikely WWII Hero

12 Oct

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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

Conscientious Objector Becomes Unlikely WWII Hero

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.