America’s Youngest Soldier

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America's Youngest Soldier, originally published in 1958 as In Spite of Hell, is the gripping account of Ernest L. Wrentmore, the youngest soldier in the American Expeditionary Force during World War One. Wrentmore served with honor despite his age (two months shy of his thirteenth birthday at the time of his enlistment in September 1917), and despite the horrors he witnessed in the trenches in France. Wrentmore saw front-line service on three battle fronts, and was cited for bravery for delivering a message, under fire, that made it possible for his unit to advance. Wrentmore was wounded twice and severely gassed; and on the night of October 17, 1918, he was evacuated from the field of battle during the first phase of the Meuse-Argonne offensive.

When World War Two began, the author was recalled to active duty from a successful business career, and served as an officer with the Air Force in the North African and Mediterranean campaigns. He continued his service in the Korean War and retired as a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force. Wrentmore passed away on December 11, 1983, and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. The back surface of his tombstone reads: "Youngest soldier to have served with American Expeditionary Forces in WWI, 12 years of age."