Ep 9. Most Decorated, The: The Doughboys

In this episode of WWI: The First Modern War, titled "Most Decorated, The: The Doughboys," we delve into the experiences of the American soldiers who fought in World War I. These soldiers, known as the "Doughboys," entered the war relatively late but made a significant impact on the outcome of the conflict.

Through interviews with experts and historians, as well as archival footage and photographs, we learn about the battles that the Doughboys participated in, including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, which was the largest battle in U.S. history up to that point. We also hear from descendants of Doughboys who share stories and artifacts from their family members who fought in the war.

One of the key themes of this episode is the bravery and sacrifice of the Doughboys, many of whom were recognized for their gallantry with medals such as the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, and Croix de Guerre. The episode explores the stories behind some of the most decorated soldiers of World War I, including Sergeant Alvin York and Private Henry Johnson.

We also learn about the significant challenges faced by the Doughboys, both on and off the battlefield. We hear about the brutal conditions faced by soldiers in the trenches, including exposure to mustard gas and other chemical weapons. We also learn about the discrimination faced by African American soldiers, who were often relegated to menial labor roles and faced violence and harassment from their white counterparts.

Ultimately, "Most Decorated, The: The Doughboys" offers a compelling look at the experiences of American soldiers in World War I and showcases the bravery and sacrifice of these individuals. Through their stories, we gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the war on both the soldiers who fought in it and the world as a whole.