Van Barfoot’s actions in World War II remain a powerful testament to fearless determination in the face of overwhelming danger. Serving as a U.S. Army technical sergeant, he confronted advancing German troops and the formidable menace of Tiger tanks head-on, standing his ground when retreat might have meant survival. Time and again, he chose resolve over self-preservation. That unwavering bravery not only inspired those around him but also cemented his legacy as one of America’s most honored wartime heroes—an enduring example of courage, grit, and unbreakable resolve.
Van Barfoot’s early life and upbringing
Van Barfoot was born on June 15, 1919, in Edinburg, Mississippi. Although his grandmother was Choctaw, his parents chose not to enroll him as a member of the Nation. Raised on a cotton farm, Barfoot developed a deep sense of discipline and a tireless work ethic that would later shape his service in uniform. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1940 and was first assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, training and serving in places such as Louisiana and Puerto Rico. He was later reassigned to the Headquarters Amphibious Force of the Atlantic Fleet in Quantico, Virginia. When that organization was dissolved in 1943, Barfoot transferred to the 157th Infantry Regiment of the 45th Infantry Division, where he prepared for combat operations in the European Theater of WWII.
Becoming a hero in Italy
Leading his division, Van Barfoot played a key role in several engagements near Sicily from 1943-44. Participating in significant offensives during the Italian Campaign – the Allied invasions of Sicily and Italy and the Battle of Anzio – he became familiar with the challenging terrain.
On May 23, 1944, then-tech. Sgt. Barfoot demonstrated immense bravery when his unit reached the town of Carano, in southern Italy. Acting alone, he navigated a German minefield, encountering enemy forces. Single-handedly, he neutralized two machine gun positions, throwing a hand grenade at one and compelling the surrender of the other. In the ensuing skirmish, he captured 17 German soldiers and took out another eight.
Barfoot faced another challenge when three Tiger I tanks were dispatched by the Germans later that day. Using a bazooka, he disabled the first and swiftly dispatched its crew using a Thompson submachine gun. Witnessing what had happened to their comrades, the other two tanks altered their course.
Following their withdrawal, Barfoot dismantled an abandoned artillery piece and rescued two injured American soldiers.
For his extraordinary actions, Barfoot was awarded the Medal of Honor. His citation reads, “Sgt. Barfoot’s extraordinary heroism, demonstration of magnificent valor, and aggressive determination in the face of pointblank fire are a perpetual inspiration to his fellow soldiers.”
Service in Korea and Vietnam
Following World War II, Van Barfoot continued his military career in the U.S. Army, serving as a helicopter pilot during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He earned his pilot’s wings in 1960 and went on to accumulate 177 combat flight hours between 1967 and 1968.
In addition to receiving the Medal of Honor, Barfoot’s distinguished service was recognized with three Purple Hearts, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, two Legions of Merit, and 11 Air Medals. He ultimately retired with the rank of colonel, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and valor.
Van Barfoot and the issues with his flagpole
At 90 years old, Van Barfoot lived in Henrico County, Virginia. As Veterans Day neared, the retired Army veteran decided to put up a 21-foot flagpole on his property. While there were no rules against flagpoles, the local Homeowners Association (HOA) objected, citing “aesthetic concerns.”
The disagreement quickly gained national attention. Fox News ran a segment highlighting how unreasonable the situation seemed. Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Jim Webb (D-VA) voiced their support for Barfoot, and White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs also backed him.
Surprisingly, within a week, the HOA dropped its complaint.
Van Barfoot’s death and legacy
Van Barfoot passed away on March 2, 2012. According to his daughter, the 92-year-old had fallen in front of his home, resulting in a skull fracture that led to a brain bleed.
The segment of Mississippi Highway 16 passing through Barfoot’s hometown has been designated the “Van T. Barfoot Medal of Honor Highway,” while a building at McGuire Veterans Hospital in Richmond, Virginia, bears his name in tribute. In May 2022, it was disclosed that Fort Pickett, Virginia, would be rechristened as Fort Barfoot, aligning with the ongoing initiative to rename structures previously dedicated to members of the Confederate Army.
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The portion of Mississippi Highway 16 that runs through Barfoot’s hometown is called the “Van T. Barfoot Medal of Honor Highway,” and a building at McGuire Veterans Hospital in Richmond, Virginia is named in his honor. In May 2022, it was announced Fort Pickett, Virginia will be renamed Fort Barfoot, with the change having since come into effect.