Roddie Edmonds

This week’s Veterans Spotlight shines on Roddie Edmonds

Roddie Edmonds was born in August 1919 in South Knoxville, Tennessee. Raised in a close-knit family, he graduated from Knoxville High School in 1938 and was an active member of his local Methodist church, reflecting his deep faith. Throughout his life, Edmonds was married three times, with his final marriage to Mary Ann Watson lasting from 1953 until his passing. He had two sons.

In 1941, at the age of 22, Edmonds enlisted in the Army at Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, a decision that would lead him to a defining moment in history. By December 1944, he and his fellow soldiers were deployed to the European Theater just before the Battle of the Bulge, a pivotal event in World War II.

On December 19, 1944, during this battle, Edmonds was captured by German forces and became a prisoner of war. Initially held at Stalag IX-B, he was later moved to Stalag IX-A. There, he demonstrated exceptional leadership as the senior noncommissioned officer, responsible for the well-being of 1,292 American POWs.

A crucial moment came on January 27, 1945, when the camp commandant ordered Edmonds to identify Jewish-American soldiers. Edmonds bravely refused, stating, "We are all Jews here," underscoring their unity as POWs and adherence to the Geneva Conventions. This bold stance protected approximately 300 Jewish-American soldiers, even as a German officer threatened him with a pistol.

After enduring 100 days in captivity, Edmonds returned home at the end of World War II. Remarkably, he kept his heroic actions a secret for many years, even from his own family, and received no formal recognition or medals for his bravery.

Edmonds continued to serve in the military during the Korean War and later pursued various careers in journalism, mobile homes, and cable television. His story remained largely unknown until his son, Christopher Edmonds, brought it to light.

In 2015, Yad Vashem posthumously recognized Edmonds as “Righteous Among the Nations,” making him the first U.S. soldier and one of only five Americans to receive this honor for saving Jews during the Holocaust. Efforts to further recognize him with the Medal of Honor continue, including a speech by Former President Obama and a historical marker placed in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 2020, commemorating his heroism and compassion.

Roddie Edmonds passed away in August 1985 in Knoxville, Tennessee. His legacy endures as a testament to extraordinary courage and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of others.

Thank you for your service!