Beyond Valor
A World War II Story of Extraordinary Heroism, Sacrificial Love, and a Race against Time
- History & Biography
- Publisher: Nelson Books (Thomas Nelson)
- Published: 2021
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Publisher's Description
On April 12, 1945, a fleet of American B-29 bombers flew toward Japan. Their mission was simple: Stop World War II by burning the cities, factories, and military bases of the Japanese empire, thereby forcing an unconditional surrender. But it didn't go as planned. Beyond Valor is one soldier's extraordinary tale of bravery, faith, and devotion. Onboard one of the B-29s, the City of Los Angeles, a phosphorus bomb detonated inside the plane. Staff Sergeant Henry E. "Red" Erwin absorbed the blast of burning phosphorus and managed to throw the still-flaming bomb overboard before collapsing from the third-degree burns that covered his body. Breaking protocol, the plane diverted to a military hospital at Iwo Jima. President Truman quickly ordered that Erwin be awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest honor of the American military. Drawn from in-depth interviews with eyewitnesses and deep archival research, Beyond Valor tells the gripping story of Erwin's life--from his upbringing in the suburbs of Birmingham, Alabama to his enduring commitment to supporting veterans. Beyond Valor gives you a front-row seat to Erwin's amazing life and legacy. Along the way, you'll learn: How Erwin's childhood in Birmingham shaped his faith and his family How a split-second decision changed the course of his life The countless ways that Erwin chose to give back to his fellow veterans after he returned home Beyond Valor is about more than that fateful day in April 1945. It's a story of one man's journey from the ultimate despair to a place beyond service, beyond honor, and beyond valor: a life illuminated by the light of God's love.
Endorsements (3)
“Beyond Valor is an inspiring true story of heroism aboard a B-29 Superfortress in the skies over Japan during World War II. In a swift moment of instinctive reaction, Red Erwin selflessly saved the lives of many, and for his courage and sacrifice he was awarded the congressional Medal of Honor, inspiring generations to come. Red’s grandson Jon Erwin, along with William Doyle, recaptures this amazing story with the depth and care that a hero deserves. This is a thrilling and poignant story of patriotism that all Americans can be stirred, moved, and encouraged by.”
“The human heart is moved by great stories. Each of us yearns for our lives to be connected to a larger purpose. That’s why stories inspire us. We see reflections of our own lives in the stories of others. My friend Jon Erwin is a master storyteller who has inspired millions with his movies. Beyond Valor is a story of heroism, love, and devotion that will inspire you to believe there is a grand purpose for your own life, larger than you can see, greater than you can imagine.”
“To the men and women who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, and to those who dedicate their lives to our country knowing they may give the same sacrifice. “I am not a hero. The real heroes are those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for this country, those who have given their lives. They’re the ones who deserve the medals. I am only a survivor. I don’t wear the Medal of Honor for what I did, I wear it for everyone who served.”
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