What Happened To Desmond Doss Brother?

Desmond Doss, the World War II hero whose story was popularized by the 2016 film “Hacksaw Ridge,” is well-known for his incredible acts of bravery and his staunch position as a conscientious objector. However, less is known about his family, particularly his brother, Harold Doss. This article aims to shed light on Harold Doss, his life, and his relationship with his brother, Desmond.

Early Life and Family Background

Desmond and Harold Doss were born into a family deeply rooted in the Seventh-day Adventist faith. Their upbringing in Lynchburg, Virginia, was marked by a strict adherence to the principles of their religion, which included observing the Sabbath and abstaining from violence.

• Desmond was born in 1919, and Harold followed a few years later.
• Their parents, William and Bertha Doss, raised them in a conservative and religious environment.

Harold Doss’s Military Service

Like his brother Desmond, Harold was drafted into the military during World War II. However, unlike Desmond, there is limited public information about Harold’s service, including where he served or the specifics of his military career.

• It is known that Harold served in the Navy, contrasting with Desmond’s service in the Army.
• Harold’s role and experiences during the war remain largely undocumented in popular media.

Post-War Life

After the war, Harold returned to civilian life. The details of his post-war experiences are not as well-documented as those of his brother Desmond, who became a public figure due to his heroic acts during the Battle of Okinawa.

• Harold’s life after the war was relatively private, and he did not receive the same level of attention as Desmond.
• He is known to have lived a quiet life, away from the public eye.

Relationship with Desmond Doss

The bond between Desmond and Harold was that of typical siblings, but it was also shaped by their shared experiences in the military and their religious upbringing.

• Both brothers were raised with strong moral convictions, which influenced their actions during the war.
• Despite their different paths in the military, they shared a common understanding of the value of life and the importance of their faith.

Harold’s Perspective on Desmond’s Heroism

While there is little public record of Harold’s thoughts on his brother’s heroism, it is reasonable to assume that he was proud of Desmond’s actions, given their shared values and beliefs.

• Family members often express pride in their relatives’ accomplishments, especially when those achievements align with their own principles.
• Harold likely supported Desmond’s decision to serve as a medic and to refuse to bear arms.

Harold Doss’s Later Years

Harold lived out his later years away from the limelight that followed his brother after the war. He passed away at the age of 87 on August 16, 2007.

• His obituary notes that he was a retired employee of the Craddock-Terry Shoe Corporation.
• He was survived by his wife, Frances Doss, and their family.

Desmond Doss’s Reflections on His Brother

Desmond Doss, who passed away in 2006, a year before his brother, did not speak extensively in public about his brother. However, it is known that the Doss brothers maintained a close relationship throughout their lives.

• Desmond’s focus on his faith and his dedication to saving lives may have been influenced by his family ties, including his relationship with Harold.
• The brothers’ shared experiences during the war likely strengthened their bond.

Harold Doss in the Shadow of His Brother’s Legacy

While Desmond Doss became a national hero and the subject of a major motion picture, Harold’s story remained largely untold. This is not uncommon for siblings of famous individuals, who often live their lives out of the spotlight.

• Harold’s life story serves as a reminder that behind every celebrated figure are family members with their own stories and experiences.
• The lack of public recognition does not diminish Harold’s service to his country or his own personal journey.

Public Interest in Harold Doss

Since the release of “Hacksaw Ridge,” there has been a renewed interest in the lives of the Doss family members, including Harold. However, information remains scarce.

• Historians and enthusiasts may continue to seek out more details about Harold’s life and service.
• The Doss family’s privacy has meant that many personal details have not been shared with the public.

Remembering Harold Doss

Harold Doss’s story is a testament to the countless individuals who served their country during World War II and returned to lead quiet, private lives. His legacy, while not as widely recognized as his brother’s, is nonetheless a part of the tapestry of American history.

• Harold’s life reminds us of the personal sacrifices made by military families and the diverse experiences of veterans.
• His story contributes to the broader narrative of the Greatest Generation and their impact on the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Harold Doss, the brother of World War II hero Desmond Doss, lived a life that was largely out of the public eye. His military service in the Navy during the war and his post-war life as a private citizen contrast with the fame and recognition that Desmond received. Despite this, Harold’s story is an important part of the Doss family narrative and the history of American veterans. While details about his life and thoughts on his brother’s heroism are limited, it is clear that he shared a close bond with Desmond, rooted in their upbringing and shared values. Harold Doss’s life serves as a reminder of the many unsung heroes who have served their country with honor and humility.

FAQ Section

What branch of the military did Harold Doss serve in?

Harold Doss served in the United States Navy during World War II.

Did Harold Doss receive any recognition for his military service?

There is limited information on any specific recognition or awards Harold Doss may have received for his military service. Unlike his brother Desmond, Harold did not become a public figure, and details of his service are not widely known.

How did Harold Doss’s life differ from that of his brother Desmond after the war?

After the war, Harold Doss returned to civilian life and lived quietly, away from the fame that surrounded his brother Desmond. He worked for the Craddock-Terry Shoe Corporation and lived out his years with his family, while Desmond became a public figure due to his heroic acts during the war and his portrayal in “Hacksaw Ridge.”