Matt Urban (1919-1995) was the most decorated soldier in U.S. military history, receiving 29 medals and awards for bravery during his 20 months of service in Europe during World War II.

Matt Urban was born in Buffalo, New York, on August 25, 1919, just after the end of World War I. He excelled at sports, particularly boxing, and dreamed of a career as an athletic coach. Urban graduated from Cornell University with a degree in history and government. His career plans were interrupted by the entry of the U.S. into World War II in December 1941.

Glory

While in college, Urban joined the Reserve Officer Training Corps and was an early draftee. His first assignment was as Morale and Special Services Officer with the 9th Infantry Division, which was to participate in the invasion of North Africa in November 1942. During the unit's first action, Urban exhibited the courage and willingness to...