Roswell Winans might not be a familiar name, but he should be a household one, especially if you're interested in real American bravery. Winans was a proud member of the United States Marine Corps and saw battle during World War II. Born in Michigan, he went on to earn the Medal of Honor in the Solomon Islands for his gallantry in 1943, showcasing exactly what it means to be a true patriot defending the freedoms of our beloved country.
So why does Roswell Winans' story matter today? Because it’s a tale of dedication, courage, and sacrifice—all qualities that should be revered and taught to the next generation. In this day and age where everyone’s so eager to trivialize the meaning of real heroism, Winans' story serves as a stark reminder that true bravery requires stepping up when it’s least convenient, not just when it looks good on social media.
Let’s explore, with the fervor it rightly deserves, the top ten reasons Roswell Winans shouldn’t just be a name covered in dust in poorly attended history classes.
Medal of Honor: Winans was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Edson's Ridge. It’s not handed out like participation trophies in today's climate; it is the highest award for 'conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty.' Winans' fearless leadership stopped a potentially catastrophic situation in its tracks.
Close-Quarter Combat: During his deployment in the Solomon Islands, Captain Winans didn’t just direct from the background. No, he engaged in close-quarters combat, fighting the enemy hands-on, exhibiting true leadership by example — a foreign concept to those who prefer to lead from afar with the safety of endless red tape.
Training Future Leaders: Winans was pivotal in training the Marine Raiders, America’s first special operations forces in WWII. Long before the elite SOCOM operations, Winans was preparing young marines to become the men who would take courage to international waters.
Engineering the Fight: With sharp instincts in engineering and strategy, Roswell Winans built crucial fortifications in the face of overwhelming odds. He crafted defenses that saved countless lives. This kind of pragmatic thinking is something we could use a lot more of today.
Path to Commission: Rising from the enlisted ranks to become an officer, Winans embodies the belief in upward mobility through grit and determination. His career serves as a testament to hard work and devotion—not sectarian posturing or undue entitlement.
Devoted Family Man: Between battles and tours, Winans was a dedicated husband and father. He balanced serving his country with honoring his responsibilities at home. In the world of endless career pursuits, let’s remember there’s no greater calling than raising the next generation of defenders.
Advocate for Veterans: He continued to fight for his fellow servicemen long after the battles had ended. He was an advocate for fellow veterans, recognizing that the battle for rights and respect doesn’t end in the warzone, it continues back home.
Educator: Post-military, Winans devoted part of his life to education, passing on his vast knowledge and experience to those willing to listen. An unsung hero even to the younger breed of marines.
Symbol of Patriotism: He has become an icon of patriotism, though far too removed from the limelight. This makes it clear that heroism doesn’t need a platform or a hashtag but is immortalized by its impact and legacy.
Forgotten Heritage: Lastly, Roswell Winans should remind us that marginalized voices are not the voices of the real heroes who risked life and limb for the ideals of freedom and democracy. In their silence, we find the stories of valor that are too often ignored.
We must not forget Roswell Winans, a real American hero whose actions taught us how to walk the walk when it comes to true bravery in the face of adversity. Let this serve as a wake-up call to celebrate those who’ve paid a price many of us will never know.