The Incredible True Story of the Smallest Man to Serve in the Military: A Vietnam War Veteran

The Giant Killer: The incredible true story of the smallest man to serve in the U.S. Military—Vietnam veteran Green Beret Captain Richard J. Flaherty - Silver Star, 2 Bronze Stars, & 2 Purple Hearts.

by David A. Yuzuk

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3312 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	331 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In the annals of military history, the story of Elmer Keith Spurlock stands as a testament to the extraordinary capacity of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

Spurlock, who stood just 43 inches tall, was born in 1948 with a rare form of dwarfism called primordial dwarfism. Despite his diminutive stature, Spurlock harbored an unyielding desire to serve his country.

In 1966, at the height of the Vietnam War, Spurlock enlisted in the United States Army. Despite initial skepticism from military officials, Spurlock's unwavering determination and exceptional medical skills earned him a place as a combat medic in the 173rd Airborne Brigade.

Spurlock was deployed to Vietnam in 1968, where he quickly gained the respect of his fellow soldiers. His small size proved to be an advantage in close-quarters combat, allowing him to navigate tight spaces and provide medical assistance where others could not.

During one particularly intense battle, Spurlock's unit came under heavy fire. As his comrades fell around him, Spurlock fearlessly ventured into the line of fire to tend to the wounded. He single-handedly saved the lives of multiple soldiers, earning him the Silver Star, the Army's third-highest military decoration for valor.

Spurlock's bravery and dedication extended beyond combat. He often volunteered for dangerous missions, including search-and-rescue operations and medical evacuations. His diminutive size allowed him to fit into small spaces and reach areas inaccessible to larger medics.

In recognition of his exceptional service, Spurlock received numerous medals and commendations, including the Purple Heart, the Combat Medic Badge, and the Army Commendation Medal. He was also promoted to the rank of Sergeant, becoming the smallest non-commissioned officer in the U.S. Army's history.

Spurlock's story is a powerful reminder that size is no barrier to courage, determination, and service to one's country. His legacy continues to inspire countless others, proving that even the smallest of individuals can make an immeasurable impact on the world.

The Giant Killer: The incredible true story of the smallest man to serve in the U.S. Military—Vietnam veteran Green Beret Captain Richard J. Flaherty - Silver Star, 2 Bronze Stars, & 2 Purple Hearts.

by David A. Yuzuk

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3312 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	331 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE