Basic Training

Yet another great American receives recognition for heroism—fifty years later.

When the White House called Corporal Tibor "Ted" Rubin to tell him he was to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor he thought it was one of his friends playing a joke. President Bush has called the 76-year-old Korean War veteran "one of the greatest Jewish soldiers America has ever known." But Ted is characteristically modest. "I was just a country boy," he told me, "but next week I'll be honored with the country's highest award. This is unbelievable."

Being awarded the Medal of Honor is another of a series of adventures in Ted Rubin's remarkable life. He was born in Hungary in 1929, and at age 15 was sent to Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria. His first day there an SS captain told the assembled, "None of you will get out of here alive." [SNIP]

Mauthausen was liberated by the U.S. 11th Armored Division on May 5, 1945. With nothing left for him in Hungary Ted emigrated to the United States. He promised himself that he would show his appreciation to the country that gave him his freedom, and saved his life.

Ted joined the Army in February 1950, and five months later landed in Korea with the 3rd battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, one of the first American units sent to help repel North Korean invasion forces.

Corporal Rubin eventually became a POW of the North Koreans Chinese Communists. His ‘basic training’ (his words) with the Nazis helped him and many other Americans stay alive.

Go read why it took so long for Corporal Rubin to receive his award.

A few years back, I was doubtful as to whether they made them like Corporal Rubin anymore. Observing today’s warriors, however, I am far more optimistic on the subject.

(Thanks to Blackfive)

UPDATE:

(Thanks to Mudville Gazette)