GameDay Network

The Heroic Journey of Don Graves: A WWII Veteran's Tale of Survival and Redemption

December 10, 2024
Explore the heroic tale of WWII veteran Don Graves, from Iwo Jima survivor to dedicated pastor and community hero.
Retired Corporal Don Graves, a remarkable WWII veteran from the Fifth Marine Division, shares his intense and inspiring life story. At the tender age of 98, he vividly recalls the brutal battle of Iwo Jima, where he and only 17 others out of 335 men survived to see the iconic American flag raising. Post-war, Graves faced severe trauma, which led to a transformative spiritual journey sparked by an emotional encounter at a Billy Graham meeting. His healing path led him to a fulfilling career in ministry, impacting many lives over 32 years. Recently honored at Texas Motor Speedway, his story is a testament to courage, faith, and the power of redemption.