A Superhuman Display of Bravery

Crawford had a heart made of steel which didn’t allow him to sit like ducks facing deadly fires. This led him to take control of the situation and single-handedly destroying three German machine gun nests by throwing grenades at them. His superhuman display helped him to save numerous lives and rise above the dangerous situation.

From Daring to Danger

The relief proved to be short-lived for Crawford and his team as they were captured by the German troops after they got too close to enemy’s fortified area. The news of Crawford and his fellow mates being MIA spread across the nation. It was then that things again took an unbelievable turn.

Tragedy and Honor

On hearing, no news of Crawford and his team from the battlefield, the American government was forced to presume them dead. An announcement was also made in the year 1944 to award Crawford with The Medal of Honor “posthumously”. It was his father George who received the award on his behalf handed over to him by US Maj.- Gen Terry Allen in “a brief, impressive ceremony.” Everyone was totally unaware of the reality.

Astonishing Update

While Crawford was being awarded in his nation, he was left unaware of his felicitation in another country amidst enemies. But, everything changed once the news of them being free from German prison camps surfaced making William a rare survivor of German PoW internment camp. He was heading back home.

National Hero Returns Home

Crawford married Eileen Bruce in the year 1946 after returning to his home nation. But, the desire to serve the country was still in his heart which saw him working for the Army again for 20 years after he finally took retirement in 1967. Post-retirement he moved to Palmer Lake, Colorado to work as director of the Lucretia Vaile Museum where he conducted many museum events and later worked in the Air Force Academy as a janitor.

 Dedicated Patriot

His simplicity got displayed from that time since. As during his time in the military he never went on to proudly display his Medal of Honor. The whole Academy was turned on its head when they made these discoveries. Now, the people there treated Crawford in a totally different manner. These things were leading to another remarkable event which was going to change Crawford’s life.