Searching for the Forgotten Heroes of World War II
While the pages of history often celebrate the generals and grand battles of World War II, countless unsung heroes—ordinary men and women—played pivotal roles in shaping the outcome of the war. Their stories, though seldom told, are rich with courage, sacrifice, and resilience.
1. Matthew Fong – A Chinese-American Bomber Gunner
At just 22 years old, Matthew Fong served as a ball turret gunner aboard U.S. B-17 bombers during World War II. Flying 35 perilous missions over Germany in 1944, he was part of a group of approximately 20,000 Chinese Americans who served despite facing racial discrimination and exclusionary laws. After the war, Fong became a missionary and minister, dedicating his life to service. In 2025, at the age of 103, he was honored with the Mensch Award for his integrity and honor.
2. The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion – The “Six Triple Eight”
During World War II, the all-black, all-female 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, known as the “Six Triple Eight,” was tasked with clearing a massive backlog of 17 million undelivered mail items in Europe. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, the battalion devised a manual system using locator cards to efficiently deliver around 65,000 pieces of mail per shift, boosting troop morale. In 2025, 80 years after their deployment, they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for their exceptional service.
3. Missak Manouchian – The Armenian Resistance Leader
Missak Manouchian, an Armenian poet who survived the 1915-1916 Ottoman massacre, became a leader in the French Resistance during World War II. In 1944, he was executed by the Nazis for his resistance against their occupation. In 2024, France honored Manouchian by inducting him into the Panthéon, the country’s national monument, alongside 23 of his comrades, recognizing their sacrifices and contributions to France’s liberation.
4. Antonín Fajkus – The Czech-American Fighter Pilot
Antonín Fajkus, born in Czechoslovakia and later a U.S. citizen, served as a fighter pilot in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Flying 190 operational flights and totaling over 500 combat hours, he was awarded the U.S. Air Medal six times. His story, once largely forgotten, gained recognition in 2025 when historian Jiří Klůc uncovered his contributions, leading to a surge of recognition, including over 900 birthday cards for his 101st birthday.
5. Djaafar Khemdoudi – The Algerian Resistance Fighter
Djaafar Khemdoudi, born in French Algeria, joined the French Resistance during World War II. He saved numerous individuals, including Jewish children, from Nazi persecution. Captured by the Germans, Khemdoudi was deported to concentration camps, including Neuengamme and Ravensbrück. His bravery and dedication to aiding others highlight the often-overlooked contributions of colonial soldiers in the war.
6. Mariya Lagunova – The Soviet Tank Driver
Mariya Lagunova served as a mechanic-driver of a T-34 tank in the Soviet Red Army during World War II. Achieving the rank of guard sergeant, she participated in significant battles on the Eastern Front. Her story underscores the vital roles played by women in the military, often overshadowed by their male counterparts.
These individuals, among many others, exemplify the diverse and often overlooked contributions that were instrumental in the Allied victory during World War II. Their stories serve as a reminder that heroism can be found in every corner of the globe and in the hearts of ordinary people.
Honoring Unsung Heroes of World War II
