Walter D. Ehlers: A Promise to Mom

When young Walter Ehlers asked his parents for permission to enlist in the US Army, his dad eagerly assented but his mom held back. With tears in her eyes, she said she'd only allow it if he promised to be a Christian soldier.

Ehlers was tempted many times to go back on his promise, but the memory of his mother's tears kept him faithful while he served during World War II.

Ehlers fought from North Africa to Germany, losing a brother on D-Day, suffering numerous wounds, and seeing some of the war's toughest combat with the 1st Infantry Division (AKA the "Big Red One").

By the end of 1944, he'd earned a battlefield commission and was awarded the Medal of Honor, showing the whole world what a true Christian soldier looked like.