Image: Alexander A. Drabik
Sgt. Alexander Albert Drabik (December 28, 1910 - September 28, 1993) was an incredible hero who made history during World War II. He was the first American soldier to cross the Ludendorff Bridge over the Rhine river at Remagen, Germany, during the intense Battle of Remagen. With bravery and determination, Drabik led two other enlisted men across the bridge, facing the constant threat of demolition charges and enemy fire. For his exceptional act, he was honored with the Distinguished Service Cross, a highly prestigious award.
A Remarkable Biography
Drabik came from humble beginnings, born to Polish immigrants John D. and Frances Drabik near Holland and Toledo, Ohio. Growing up on a farm with thirteen siblings, he learned the value of hard work and perseverance from an early age. After attending Dorr Street School, he enlisted in the United States Army in October 1942, leaving behind his job as a butcher in Holland, Ohio.
Image: Major General John W. Leonard, Sgt. Alexander A. Drabik and his Parents in Toledo Zoo on August 18, 1945.
A Heroic Military Career
Even before his famous feat at the Ludendorff Bridge, Drabik had already displayed exceptional courage. During his military service, he saved 120 recruits who had become lost in the California desert. However, it was during the Battle of the Bulge that Drabik's bravery truly shone through. As a Squad leader in Able Company, 27th Armored Infantry Battalion, Combat Command B, 9th Armored Division, Drabik received orders from his commanding officer, Lt. Karl H. Timmermann, to assault the Ludendorff Bridge on March 7, 1945.
Under heavy machine-gun fire, Drabik fearlessly sprinted across the bridge, leading the way for his comrades. Despite the imminent danger of enemy forces and the possibility of sudden detonations, he pushed forward, losing his helmet along the way. Drabik became the first American soldier to reach the eastern side of the bridge, ensuring a vital strategic victory. His gallantry earned him the Distinguished Service Cross, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the cause.
"We ran down the middle of the bridge, shouting as we went. I didn't stop because I knew that if I kept moving they couldn't hit me. My men were in squad column, and not one of them was hit. We took cover in some bomb craters. Then we just sat and waited for others to come. That's the way it was." - Alexander A. Drabik
Image: Drabik is awarded the Distinguished Service Cross from MG John W. Leonard, April 1945.
Toledo, Ohio, honored Drabik and his commanding officer, Maj. Gen. John W. Leonard, with a parade on August 18, 1945, to recognize their remarkable achievements.
A Legacy to Remember
Sadly, in 1993, Drabik's life was cut short by an unfortunate auto accident while he was on his way to a reunion with his fellow soldiers. However, his legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to demonstrate courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
Drabik's heroism has also received recognition in various forms of media. The book "Hero of the Rhine: The Karl Timerrmann Story" mentions his incredible role in the Battle of Remagen. Furthermore, the Hollywood film "The Bridge at Remagen," released in 1969, was inspired by a book that depicted the capture of the bridge. In the movie, the character of Sgt. Angelo, portrayed by Ben Gazzara, is based on the fearless Sgt. Alexander A. Drabik.
Let us remember and celebrate the extraordinary bravery and selflessness demonstrated by Sgt. Alexander A. Drabik. His actions will forever be etched in history, reminding us of the incredible sacrifices made by those who serve in the military.
