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Calvin Leon Graham was born in Canton, Texas on 3 April 1930. The youngest of seven children, Calvin's claim to fame was when he lied about his age and joined the United States Navy at the age of twelve during World War II. He served aboard the U.S.S. South Dakota (BB-57) which took part in the Battle of Guadalcanal. The ship sustained heavy damage plus many casualties and Graham was wounded in this action. Undeterred, Graham continued to fight on and function effectively despite his wounds. For his conduct during the battle, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart for his wounds.
After his mother found out where her son had been, she contacted the Navy and his true age was revealed. He was subsequently thrown in the brig at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Texas where he was held for almost three months. He was released when his sister threatened to go to the newspapers that the Navy was holding a young (underage) hero. After he was released, the Navy had awarded Graham a Dishonorable Discharge forfeiting his benefits and awards.
Later on, he was able to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps. He served three years before breaking his back.
He would fight for his benefits and discharge upgrade for the rest of his life. His discharge was upgraded in 1978 and his benefits restored in 1988. All his medals were eventually re-bestowed with the Purple Heart posthumously in 1994.
Calvin Graham died on 6 November 1992 in Fort Worth, Texas.
His story was told in the made-for-TV movie, Too Young the Hero (1988).
