Henry E. Erwin

Who Is Henry E. Erwin? Age, Biography, and Wiki

Born on May 8, 1921, Henry E. Erwin made history as a courageous Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. His unwavering valor was recognized when he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions on an ill-fated mission in April 1945. As of 2025, Erwin would be 104 years old, which makes him a remarkable example of resilience and bravery in the annals of military history.

Occupation	Soldiers
Date of Birth	May 8, 1921
Age	80 Years
Birth Place	Adamsville, Alabama, US
Horoscope	Taurus
Country	U.S
Date of death	16 January, 2002
Died Place	Birmingham, Alabama, US

Popularity

Height, Weight & Measurements

Unfortunately, specific information about Henry E. Erwin's height and weight during his active years in service is not widely documented. However, given the era and his military background, it is generally understood that service members of the US Army Air Forces maintained rigorous physical standards to ensure operational effectiveness.

Erwin pulled the pin and released a bomb into the chute, but the fuse malfunctioned and ignited the phosphorus prematurely, burning at 1500°F (815°C). The canister flew back up the chute and into Erwin's face, blinding him, searing off one ear and obliterating his nose.

Phosphorus pentoxide smoke immediately filled the aircraft, making it impossible for the pilot to see his instrument panel. Erwin was afraid the bomb would burn through the metal floor and make contact with the bomb bay. Completely blind, he picked it up and, feeling his way, crawled around the gun turret and headed for the copilot's window.

His face and arms were covered with ignited phosphorus, and his path was blocked by the navigator's folding table, hinged to the wall, but down and locked. The navigator had left his table to make a sighting. Erwin could not release the table's latches with one hand, so he grabbed the white-hot bomb between his bare right arm and his ribcage.

In the few seconds needed to raise the table, the phosphorus burned through his flesh to the bone. His body on fire, he stumbled into the cockpit, threw the bomb out the window, and collapsed between the pilot's seats.

Family, Dating & Relationship Status

Henry E. Erwin was married to his wife, who supported him throughout his military career and post-service life. They enjoyed a loving relationship until her passing. As for his current relationship status in 2025, there is limited public information available, but it is essential to respect the privacy of prominent figures and their families, especially concerning matters of the heart.

Like many of his generation, he grew up in poverty and lost his father at an early age. However, he had a very strong religious faith, which he discussed on a History Channel documentary on Medal of Honor recipients in 1999. Erwin said, "I called on the Lord to help me and He has never let me down".

Erwin joined the Army Reserve from nearby Bessemer on July 27, 1942. Called to active duty as an aviation cadet in the Army Air Forces on February 3, 1943, he trained as a pilot in Ocala, Florida, but washed out due to "flying deficiency".

He was instead transferred to technical school at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, as a private first class in July of that year. He completed further radio operator and radio mechanic training in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Madison, Wisconsin, until his graduation in 1944.

Net Worth and Salary

In 2025, estimates regarding Henry E. Erwin's net worth could include various factors such as military pensions, potential charitable endeavors, and any income derived from public speaking engagements related to his military experience. However, accurate figures are often hard to ascertain due to the private nature of personal finances. As a revered Medal of Honor recipient, his legacy resonates more profoundly than financial metric.

Career, Business and Investments

Henry E. Erwin's career was defined primarily by his active service in the U.S. Army Air Forces, where he made a critical impact during World War II. Post-war, he continued to champion veterans' rights and often engaged in public discourse regarding military service, sacrifice, and patriotism. Beyond his military accomplishments, there have been no prominent reports of any business ventures or investments, highlighting his focus on serving his country and advocating for fellow veterans.

In 1997, the Air Force created the Henry E. Erwin Outstanding Enlisted Aircrew Member of the Year Award. It is presented annually to an airman, noncommissioned officer and senior noncommissioned officer in the flight engineering, loadmaster, air surveillance and related career fields. It is only the second Air Force award named for an enlisted person.

Social Network

As a military hero, Henry E. Erwin has gained a following and respect across various platforms, though social media profiles are not explicitly known. His legacy continues through veterans' organizations and memorials honoring his service. Fans and supporters share tributes and stories that celebrate not only his bravery but also his life’s work.

For 37 years, Erwin served as a benefits counselor at the veterans' hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. In 1951, his story was included in the movie The Wild Blue Yonder; Erwin was portrayed by Dave Sharpe.

Education

Henry E. Erwin's early life and education, like many of his contemporaries, were influenced by the events around him, particularly World War II. Detailed information about specific educational institutions will be sparse, but it is understood that he, like many service members, received significant training and education through his military service, gaining technical and leadership skills that would shape his post-war activities.

In summary, Henry E. Erwin remains a distinguished figure in American history, symbolizing unmatched bravery and selflessness. As we look to the future in 2025, he continues to inspire new generations, highlighting the importance of courage, valor, and dedication to one’s country.