Calvin Graham started shaving at age 11—not because he needed to, but because he wanted to look older. He practiced speaking in a deep voice and standing tall, hoping no one would guess the truth.At just 12 years old, Calvin did the unthinkable.He forged his mother’s signature, lied about his age, and enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II. By the time most kids were learning cursive, Calvin was aboard the USS South Dakota, fighting in one of the fiercest naval battles of the Pacific.He was wounded by shrapnel, but instead of seeking help, he pulled other injured sailors to safety. For his bravery, he was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart—all before his 13th birthday.Then the truth came out.Calvin was discharged for being underage. His medals were revoked. His benefits denied. For decades, he was treated like he never served. It wasn’t until years later that his awards were restored and his record made right.He may have lied to get in—but he never lied about his courage.Calvin Graham was a child soldier who fought for a country that almost forgot him. But history remembers.#WWIIHero #CalvinGraham
