Sam Dreben

Download or read book Sam Dreben written by Kalman Dubov and published by Kalman Dubov. This book was released on 2021-12-16 with total page pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Sam Dreben came to the United States penniless, with very few skills. Shortly after he arrived, he enlisted in the United States Army, soon seeing action in the Philippines. He excelled as a machine gunner, with claims he could shoot the left eye of a sparrow at a great distance. He settled in El Paso Texas, and from there reenlisted several times, and with each military action, his fame and courtly manner won him acclaim and prowess. During World War One, he saw action in Europe, first in France and later in Germany. The citation for his bravery for saving the French line from a flanking maneuver reflects incredible bravery under fire. A grateful France awarded him the Medaille Militaire, its highest honor for bravery in battle, and similar awards from Belgium and Italy. He also received the United States Distinguished Service Cross, a medal of which he was rightly proud. Following the Great War, General John Pershing chose him as one of the four Honor Guards for the dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in November 1921, in Washington, D.C. At his untimely death, the Texas Legislature flew the State Flag at half-mast in honor of the loss of a Son of Texas. He also received the highest honors from statesmen, generals and fellow soldiers. This is only part of the story of my great-great uncle, a hero, trailblazer and fighter. Famed journalist, Damon Runyon, gave him the title, ‘Fighting Jew,’ a title that Sam carried with great pride and honor. In his lifetime he was a walking legend and after his passing, his bravery and military skill reached mythic heights. He was admired and loved, and it is an honor to write of his life. If there was a person of the past with whom I would have wanted to speak, I would choose Sam, warrior, tactician and unfailing comrade in arms.