James Robert Knight
Enlisted to Serve at 17
originally published 14 August 2017, reprinted and revised 6 June 2024
James Knight, American soldier WWII
Private James Robert Knight enlisted in the US Army at just 17 years old to serve his country in World War II. Today, he doesn't talk much about his time in the military. But we gathered a few details from his daughter, Melanie Ballard, to honor this hero.
Knight enlisted at 17 and became a truck driver and mechanic for the US Army. He served at Darmstadt Army base in Germany from 1945-1946. Upon completion of active duty, he continued to serve in the Army Reserves for several years.
Robert Knight passed away on January 22, 2019 at his home in South Carolina. We are honored to share what we have of his story and deeply thankful for his service.
About the Series
To learn from the past, it must be remembered. This patriotic blog series recounts real stories of real heroes from World War II as told by the veterans themselves or immediate family members. Marked by acts of selfless service, may these brave souls never be forgotten. And may we learn from their examples.
NarroWay's founders are patriotic Americans at heart and that patriotism bleeds through the NarroWay cast. Having fathers who served in World War II and the Korean War, love of country was instilled in Rebecca Martin and Yvonne Clark at an early age. Veterans are always welcomed and honored at the NarroWay Theatre. Many shows, such as SAMSON and THE REAL CHRISTMAS STORY, include a patriotic tribute.
More Stories of Real Heroes from World War II
- "Doc" Eugene Deibler, a Real Knight in Shining Armor
- John Horace Beauford: A Real Hero Who Stormed Normandy, by Accident
- Charles "Chuck" Richardson, Coming in on a Wing and a Prayer
- Leroy Worcester, Navy Serviceman in World War II
- James Alexander, Enlisted on His Birthday
- Jack Frank: 1142nd Engineer Combat Group
- Private James Robert Knight, Enlisted to Serve at 17