Born December 13, 1887, in Fentress County, Alvin Cullum York grew up on a farm as one of 11 children. York had little formal education but became an excellent hunter in support of his family.

Because of his religion, York opposed killing and declared himself a conscientious objector in 1917. He wrote on his draft card, "Don’t want to fight." His application was rejected, which forced York into the United States Army.

On October 8, 1918, his squad of 17 men was sent to cut a German rail supply line. The unit came under machine gun fire, and six were killed, including the ranking officer. York took command and used his experience as a hunter to “pick off” the enemy gunners. Unable to stop York, the Germans left their position and charged the Americans. Once again, he employed his skills as a marksman, killing more than 20 Germans before they surrendered. He and his surviving companions also captured 132 prisoners.

Always conscious of his lack of education, York established a school in his hometown when he returned from the war. Sergeant York, an award-winning motion picture, was made about the Medal of Honor recipient’s experience in World War I.