Everyone thought it was a simple concierge but nobody knew this strange done about it
We all have our life stories that are filled with good moments, bad and yes with dark secrets. This story concerns an old ordinary man
We all have our life stories that are filled with good moments, bad and yes with dark secrets. This story concerns an old ordinary concierge that shook the whole country with its long-standing secret. His life had been the subject of several unnecessary incidents who remained myster until a boy took on himself to demonstrate them all. His journey of life is nothing less than a film thriller who keeps you back to the end. Read the story of this enigmatic concierge who continued to deceive people with his ordinary profile and eventually emerged as someone who had no idea. And also discover what this ordinary concierge actually did the subject of a worldwide writing person and even forced the honorable president of the country to meet him. And how this legendary moment moved all those who even testified the president himself.
A janitor
William "Bill" Crawford was a concierge who works at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Normally, ignored with many and greeted by a few, this concierge was responsible for keeping the whole building clean. You could see the mirrors polish, clean the floors or spray or simply tinker with the tricks around the academy. It cleaned after some 100 young cadets. Despite his turn, the appearance of the clock on the campus, his presence at the other was as quiet as serious. Perhaps, he was the most ignored person from the Academy. This concierge had a very ordinary life like the other concierges until a secret of his past has been erupted who has radically changed his present and his future!
Discrete and diligent
The intruder in
Another reason behind the adjoining presence of the concierge was his appearance. Her gray hair meaning that her old man has kept young blood from the approach of him. Parallel to that of growing gray, he had wrinkles on his face that realized even more disinterest for students. Who likes to talk to an Introverted Concierge? Who would like to know their life story? Anybody. The only thing that had fun students on him was his twisted smile, it was pretty funny. The only thing was clear that he looked completely strange at the school of young cadets.
An enigmatic presence
Crawford is the originality of Pueblo, Colorado where he resided since his birth IE 1918. The gray man had a very hectic lifestyle during his previous work, that's why he decided to take an easy job to withdraw . That's why he kissed the profile of a concierge. Surprisingly, from there, he never talked about his previous profession to anyone. Nobody knew where this man had come. It has always been considered as an inadequacy at the campus that has been associated with the younger generation. The subsequently published accounts of those who met her reported "an old man working in the world of a young person."
Not just a concierge of Wallflower
Colonel James Moschgat who is a retired air force staff was one of the cadets when he met the concierge. He strongly remembers the shyness and nature introverted by Mr. Crawford. The wide age gap between cadets and the concierge has always been an invisible barrier between the cadet and the mysterious concierge. The impalpable tailgate prevented them from being personalized with him. Moschgat told "the academy, one of the most leaders of our country, we kept busy from dawn until twilight. And Mr. Crawford ... Well, he was only 'A concierge. "At that time, Mr. Moschgat was not aware of the unpredictable turn that his next future was going to take.
Ordinary or extraordinary
All that seems ordinary is ordinary! Crawford seemed fundamentally common but in reality, it was once common. The reason usually considered by the people behind taking this little job offer was his need to add to his pension. It is true that a very limited number of people knew his full name. However, it was easy for people to distinguish that he was very attached to his work because of his highly disciplined nature and his perfection in all he was doing. What they could not guess was his unexpected past that would soon give them a rush to adrenaline. On the other side, the concierge never tried to reveal his past to anyone. But why?
Change in the air
The entire life of this concierge was confined to his military family. While Crawford spent all day doing guidance works, on the other hand, had to prepare for their approach to events and athletic exams. Another reason that guarded him to mingle at the cadets was his introverted nature. In fact, he spoke very rarely with anyone who answers only cadet addresses. This mysterious individual used to stay engaged with its daily scan choir, cleaning toilets and dust draining. Who knew that this imperceptible concierge was going to change the lives of these students who did not even know his existence. This shocking revelation was going to be returned very soon.
A dramatic discovery
It was Saturday afternoon and the concierge did his daily work to store infrastructure and cadets were busy preparing their exams. Moschgat, one of the cadets made leaves through a book on the World Campaign of the Second World War and Allies in Italy, when his eyes recorded a surprising detail that made him prove "a sacred cow!. He could not Not believing what he saw. He then wrote "the words on the page knew," The Hosteller who was going to become a F-16 pilot had unintentionally discovered a long-standing mystery index on the concierge.
The connection
While further turning the pages, Moschgat captured the name "Private William Crawford" scribbled in big bold letters. He felt as if he had heard that name somewhere before, then in one minute from the face of the concierge that broke out before his eyes. He started wondering if the WILLIAM CRAWFORD concierge had some sort of connection with William Crawford 'William Crawford. It was a question of days, soon, the whole class was going to become familiar with the surprising connection as the "old grandfather" had with the soldier.
A tale of bravery
The name emerged in a story that Moschgat read during the preparation of his approaches. It was a battle that was transpired about 30 years ago. The story described the confrontation of the US Army infantry division over the shelf life with the enemy forces near Altavilla. Scripture had also described the incredible bravery of a man called Private Crawford. The lines of the article read "in the face of an intense and overwhelming hostile fire ... without taking into account personal safety ... On its own initiative, Private Crawford alone attacks a fortified enemy position."
Take the lead
Immensely intrigued by the details mentioned in the book, Moschgat decided whether the guard of their Air Force Academy had any type of connection with the private heroic crawford. He decided to ask the concrenchment if he was the same man. In no time, Moschgat and his roommate hunted Crawford with the book even in hand. They asked him if he is the same Crawford but the concierge seemed disinterested in the conversation. For an unknown reason, he continued to give the question. But the cadets were too determined to give up and they continued to insist. They told him the book they had seen his name. After having the book in hand, the concierge expressions have changed dramatically!
Truth reluctantly
The cadet moment gave the book, the silence fell on him. He did not stop looking at the book for a few moments, then pushed something that surprised both the cadets. The concierge exclaimed: "Yes, it's me." Once again his answer lit the flame of curiosity in them. It is not usual that a person with many achievements in the past would keep his achievements to himself. Naturally, the next question that followed was how it is never talking to anyone? In response, Crawford said, "It was a long time and a day of my life," finally was his curiosity of his curiosity, but what he did not know that it was not the end, but The beginning of Crawford's amazing story.
Returned to the past
Crawford was admitted to the US military in July 1942. In a year of admission, men graduates at the private position. He started working with the infantry division of the 142nd Infantry Regiment 36 on the front lines of southern Italy. A year later, on September 13, 1943, he became a squad when his group earned an enemy position at Hill 424 near Altavilla Silentina. The enemy was well prepared and retaliated with the same potential. American troops were in pinching now because they did not expect such strong retaliation from the rival group. The environment quickly turned smoked and the troops were facing the constant bombardment of mortar fire and machine gun. Needless to say, Crawford's group had the hardest struggle in their lives.
Superhuman display of bravery
WHEREAS the other members of the group were busy saving their lives, Crawford slowed high and decided to take enemies. Led by the determination and armored of courage, Crawford did not wait for any instruction and lobbed a grenade leading to the enemy's shooting position that threatened his platoons several times. It was a successful try! The shaved shooting station in ashes. It was a big victory for American troops. Its Valor prevented many lives from ending. But Crawford's aggression was not yet born, he won the place of the enemy. In order to dodge the bullet dam, he crawled to the German machine gun or nests and destroyed them completely. Despite his heroic performance, he had to suffer something unexpected who would give his life an incredible trick.
Declared mia
It is due to the spectacular courage of Crawford that the enemy group beat a hasty retirement from the combat view. They no longer wanted to face this man while he had at his disposal the three giant positions created. But unfortunately, before Allied Advance can not thank Crawford another tragedy hit the group! The place where Crawford had been parked and from which he made the defeat of the opponents, came under the control of the opponents. Now, Crawford was in their captivity. There was no chance of survival for this soldier who had entered the list of his enemies from his enemies since he bombed their three leading positions. He was declared MIA and finally presumed dead by his soldiers. This incident was the precursor of an unthinkable event that would take place in his life after many years.
Tragedy and honor
The US government held Valor de Crawford actions in high esteem and assigned it posthumously with the medal of honor, the very prestigious military decoration of America. According to the rules, the price has been awarded to its reward that honor has been awarded to the Father if the person in question is dead. Apparently, everyone had accepted Crawford's tragic faith as a German war prisoner. In this case, Crawford was taken as dead! The price was given in "a brief and impressive ceremony" and the medal was presented by the Majmen Terry Allen to Father George de Crawford.
Amazing update
The past months and admiration for Crawford transformed into a heroic history. Nobody knew if he was alive or dead. His family and friends had a lot of questions in their minds about the destiny of Crawford, but unfortunately, no one could answer. In the midst of this despair, something incredible took place! It happened when a group of soldiers was released from German captivity and surprisingly, Crawford was one of them. The man of the prisoner who was considered died by the people, a long time ago was living and now free. The hero of the war after walking on the floor of his country went directly to him. He was not aware of the best honor he had been given, he had no index as to the unprecedented event that would take place in his life.
Back at home
After being released from Crawford Prison began to live a civilian life and tie the node with Eileen Bruce in January 1946. But his desire to serve in the army for the country soon has mastered him and again, he is readmitted in the army. His marriage had barely been one year old when he got up himself. He continued to serve the country for 20 years more and to embrace his retirement in 1967 only. He retired as a chief sergeant. After putting in the paper, Crawford was changed to Lake Palmer, Colorado resuming the director of the Museum Lucretia Vaile and the post of a concierge in the quasi-airforce academy!
Dedicated patriot
Another interesting fact about this cum soldier, is that he has barely covered his medal of honor during his military career when he considered himself compensated for him. Perhaps his humility did not know either, that's why he took the work of a concierge without nermis. Can you imagine a man with so many achievements under his belt? In fact, this war hero did his concierge work as perfectly as he did as a soldier. The non-anticipated story of this first ordinary concierge reached all the corners and sorrow of the Academy. This revelation has completely changed the behavior of people towards them. Very impressed by his bravery, the cadets started interacting more with him. However, only fate knew where these interactions were going to take them.
Turn on
As mentioned earlier, the story of "concierge" has spread like a forest drag in the Academy. The cadets who have already ignored begin to talk to him and listen to his story of bravery. Crawford's behavior has also changed after revelation. He looked more confident and respond to the "hello" of cadet in a stronger tone and always would have this twisted smile on his face. Now, Bill used cadets by their name which was not usual to the Academy. He greatly influenced the cadets. Moschet writes in her essay "Although no one has ever officially recognized change, I think we have become Bill's cadets and his squadron."
No expectations
In response to the cadet affection to him, Crawford also started opening to them. Once an almost neglected concierge has now become one of the members from the Academy. He started attending more squadron features in non-fragile dark costumes. Without a doubt, he had become a new friend to all the cadets. Once he interacts with his young friends, Crawford mentioned his regret not to be able to personally receive the President's medal of honor because he was considered dead. Did the unsatisfied desire haunt him since then he knew he received the price but now there was nothing that can be done on that. Or, was there something that could be done?
Special surprise
Crawford was invited on the day of graduation of the year 1984 of the Air Force Academy, as a guest. He went to the ceremony not knowing what he would testify today. Thousands of people had come to Colorado Springs Falcon Stadium only to see the start festivities of this historic ceremony. The day was going to be very memorable for the 66-year concierge. This is true that he had received the prices and honors of his value, but that's true that something was still not there. The ceremony was going to fulfill this concierge's lack of life.
Long-suffering recognition
The stadium was full of generalists, cadets, staff and their children, former and President Ronald Regan. It was a historic moment like the commander-in-chief while offering his speech mentioned the incredible leadership, humility and respect for Crawford. Those who already knew and those who came to know about him that day only looked at the concierge that had been invoked for future leaders of the generation. The President admired him also to be a soldier who had gone "beyond the call of duty". Now, the weather was close to the moment when the Crawford was probably the best time of his life.
Attacking acknowledgment
The President put an end to his speech with a surprising note. He said, "Now there is something I want to do that means a lot for me and, I'm sure, I will mean a lot for you." Then the President highlighted Crawford's efforts in the Second World War. He stated on the Crawford service in Europe followed by his imprisonment.
Years in manufacturing
The President also took note of Crawford's inability to receive his medal of honor by himself, for he had been incarcerated by the German troops at the time the honor was awarded. After Reagan said something unexpected "Well, almost 40 years old went, and it's time to do it correctly." After thinking about his thought a voice, the president called Crawford at the end of the podium. After having there, the Crawford medalized president with the medal of honor he has deserved for so long. Finally, he had his wish become reality.
The honor
Each person witnessing this remarkable moment must have their heart beat very quickly. Since it was not an overwhelming moment for the Crawford, but for those who had already heard its story of bravery and sacrifices. With regard to the attribute receiver, Bill Crawford received the price with an infectious smile during the entire price reception procedure. It was a very emotional moment for Crawford and the president. The viewers showed their joy by applauding hard after the completion of the procedure. Crawford was a man who believed by acting and not in just talking. This guy introvert had spoken of the volume with its value. He overcame all the obstacles entering his way with a "visible gallantry".
Great achievement!
Crawford has never touched his achievements, in fact he has always kept it as a secret and had never been part of any official ceremony or recognition related to his doctor of honor, but the story had Other projects. The President gives prizes on behalf of the Congress. After receiving the honor, Crawford had become a member of an exclusive group that receives greetings from all members of uniform services, regardless of the rank.
Humble hero hero
Crawford had finally had what he has been deserved for so long, the recognition of his remarkable work. Another good thing about Crawford was his modesty. He said "I was just glad I was doing my part" He added again, "I thought it was just a normal duty call." Refuse to take the credit he said: "I would be in the right place at the right time."
Reflection on the legend
Colonel Moschgat described his inspiration in a test pocket indicating "Bill Crawford was a concierge. However, he was also a teacher, friend, role model and a great American hero." The heart touching the test test has Quickly summer viral on the Internet leaving more people know about this legend. Colonel Moschgat was the one who had brought this secret to the foreground. He also said that the concierge has taught them "some leaders of valuable leadership".
Life after retirement
Even after receiving the handmade medal, the beneficiary "medal" continued to serve as a concierge at the Academy. Have you seen such a humility ever? After a moment, he kissed the retreat to stay in Colorado, his original. It is intriguing that one of the four medals of honor has decided to spend the rest of his life in a small town.
Make the country a safer place to live
The mysterious concierge said goodbye to the world on March 15, 2000 at the age of 81. He spent a large fraction of his life serve the country and died at his residence in Colorado, leaving his wife Eileen behind. Even after death, he created the story. Due to its exceptional service in the war, it was buried at the US Air Force Academy Cemetery in Colorado Springs. He made him the first enlistment of the non-air force to be buried in an air academy. In 2009, his wife is also dead and was buried next to him.
An icon lives on
The Crawford day is dead, all Colorado flags were lowered to the half-mast signaling mourning and respect for Crawford. The order to lower the half-mast pavilion was issued by Governor Bill Owens. In addition, a large bronze statue was made in its standing memory next to Raymond G. Murphy, Drew Dennis Ten and Carl L. Sitter, the other three addressees of the city's honor medal.
A food for thought
Crawford was a living legend that taught large lessons in the world with his humility, determination and courage. Moschgat describes Crawford's skills in his essay called "Ten Leadership Concierge Lessons". which reads "Private Crawford invoice did not pursue the glory; he did his duty then swept the living soils," he writes more "If Bill Crawford, a winning honor medal, could clean the latrine and the smile , is there a job under your dignity? Think about it. "
Many valuable courses
Moschet discovered precisely Crawford in his essay. His affection for the concierge is obvious in his writing. He writes "a wise person once said," It's not an important life, but those you encounter throughout the difference. "Bill was the one who made a difference for me. Although I have not seen Mr. Crawford for more than twenty years, he would probably be surprised to know that I often think of him. Bill Crawford, our concierge, M ' learned a lot of precious unforgettable leadership leaders "
Not the only delayed dedication
Did this concierge story withdraw your heart? If so, then it may interest you to know that he was not the only man who received a medal of honor decade after his achievements. There are many in the line and one of them is Vernon Baker. The next slide tells the story of a Wyoming soldier who stood firm in all the difficulties of life and made history like Crawford.
Indebted story
This legend was born in Cheyenne, Wyoming in 1919. Life became brutal for him when he became orphan at the age of four, his parents who died in a car accident. After the disappearance of his parents, he was caught with his two sisters by his grandparents. He made his graduation from high school to Clarinda, Iowa. His professional profile included many meniax jobs he took after completing his graduation. It was in 1941 that he had a new direction to his career when he registered with the US military. Initially, the recruiter rejected him by saying "we have no quotas for you people." But he was far from giving up.
Determined for the duty
Vernon Baker has not moved and reappeared at the recruiter's office. This time, it was selected! The recruiter had immensely been impressed by his persistent nature. He wanted to be a master district but did an infantry soldier.
Prolonged
He had completed his military training at the time the United States returned to the Second World War. In 1943, it was made the second lieutenant. Next year, it was transferred to Italy with the 92nd Infantry Division. However, Vernon was injured and was hospitalized near Pisa. But his injury did not stop him from joining the army in 1944.
A bold chef in combat
Vernon Baker and his platoon mounted mounted the medieval castle Aghinolfi high of the Apennine mountains of Italy. It was considered the fortress of the Germans. In order to demolish the power of the Germans, it was mandatory for the Allies to break into their territory. Baker led Infantrymen in the territory of enemies with heavy weapons. Facing elite shooters, barbed wire and Baker mines and his troops have been beaten successfully in the interior of the fortified forehead.
Amazing Leadership
It was under the Vernon leadership that his team managed to dodge the fatal attacks and climb a giant mountain that brought them closer to the position of the enemy. Standing at the top of the mountain, Baker has followed several German positions. Then, American troops face strong stirring and he was again time to take care of someone. Baker arrived forward and demolished a couple of enemy observation posts, third reich telephone lines, two German bunkers and a machine gun position.
A faithful hero who has never left
The Baker company asked for strengthening during attacks, but unfortunately, no one came. Its number of troops summarized its decrease. He led a battalion that conquered the enemy fortress, the next day. Due to multiple attacks, Vernon suffered several injuries, but despite this, he continued to serve. He stayed in Europe until 1947 as an allied occupation.
The long list of achievements
Baker has many achievements during his term of office as a bronze star, a purple heart and a distinguished service cross. He also became the first black to lead a group of whites. He also took the training of the military parachutist.
A defiant role model
He had a lot of difficulties in life. In 1953, Vernon Baker was relegated to the ranks enlisted despite his dedication to his duty. However, he continued to serve in the army and one day his effectiveness catapulted him to the rank of chief sergeant. In 1968, he retired from the army and started using Red Cross advisor for disadvantaged military families.
Serve his country after service
Baker's personal life was also full of tragedies. He lost his first wife to death in 1968. However, the father of three children had his happiness came back when he wife Heidy, German tourist.
A hero makes history
And after about fifty two years from the Second World War, Berker was going to be rewarded the medal he deserved the most. President Bill Clinton celebrated the incredible bravery of Berker by assigning it with the medal of honor. It was a very emotional moment for Berker. Obviously, a drop of tear flowed in his left cheek. Later, he shared his feelings in the world by offering a speech on this special day.
A heroic moment
It was a very picturesque moment. The band of the marine body began playing "God Blessed from America" and received a standing ovation when he went to the room is from the White House. Baker expressed his emotion saying, "I thought about what was going on on the hill that day," said "I was an angry young man. But we were all angry. But we had a job to do and we did it. My personal thoughts were that I knew things would go better, and I'm happy to say that I am here to see it. "
A venerated place in history
In parallel with being the highest military price, over the five decades, he was also the first African American to take care of this prestigious price.
A solitary legend
Fight against bold spirit and leadership
His medal of honor quote "The second fighting spirit of Lieutenant Baker and the bold leadership were inspiring for his men and illustrate the highest traditions of the armed forces". He was not a fighter only in professional life but in personal life too. He heroically against cancer in 2004. But unfortunately, the disease came back!
Resting in peace
Baker kissed his last goodbye to the world on July 13, 2010. He was 90 years old at the time of his death. The National Cemetery of Arlington in Virginia has become the place of rest of Berker where his compatriots were also buried.