Unsung Heroes From History That Deserve Way More Recognition

Everyone loves a hero, and yet there are far too many courageous men and women whose names have been left out of the history books. The sacrifices they made have not only saved lives but, in some cases, saved our world as we know it. Though they've been neglected, we can honor them by sharing their incredible stories.

1. Leonard Funk

Leonard Funk was a paratrooper back in WWII. Although his short height of 5'5" made it hard for people to take him seriously at first, he became a sergeant and a force to be reckoned with as he led his soldiers to countless victories. Then, there was the real story behind his legacy.

Fearsome Leader

The one story that defines Sgt. Funk was when he and his troops were caught off guard by German soldiers. Completely surrounded, his platoon prepared to surrender until the Sergeant pulled a crazy idea out of his hat.

The Laughing Paratrooper

With a gun pointed at his head, Sgt. Leonard Funk began laughing at the soldier. This, of course, frustrated the German. Then Funk laughed even harder. Instead of surrendering his weapon, he opened fire and his platoon pushed back the enemy. Even he admitted, it was crazy. But it worked!

2. Roy Benavides

You can't talk about daring and bold heroes without mentioning Army soldier Roy Benavides (center). After setting off a landmine and making a full recovery, he was deployed to Vietnam, ready to fight the good fight. As a part of a 12-man Special Forces unit, he answered a distress call that would change everything.