Date of Birth: November 11, 1930
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Date of Death: May 4, 2005
Biography
Colonel David Haskell Hackworth, often referred to as “Hack,” was one of the most decorated soldiers in U.S. military history. Born on November 11, 1930, in Venice, California, Hackworth joined the United States Army at the age of 15, lying about his age to enlist. His military career spanned from World War II through the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Renowned for his unconventional tactics and outspoken nature, Hackworth became a prominent advocate for military reform and a critic of military leadership. During his service, Hackworth earned numerous awards, including ten Silver Stars, eight Bronze Stars, eight Purple Hearts, and a Distinguished Service Cross. After retiring from the U.S. Army in 1971, he became a journalist and author, continuing his advocacy for military reform. His best-known book, “About Face: The Odyssey of an American Warrior,” is both a memoir and a critique of the U.S. military establishment. Hackworth’s post-military career included regular contributions to Newsweek and appearances on various news programs where he continued to voice his strong opinions on military and national defense issues. He passed away on May 4, 2005, in Tijuana, Mexico, at the age of 74, after battling bladder cancer.
5 Interesting Facts about David Hackworth
1. David Hackworth enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 15 by falsifying his age.
2. He was the youngest captain in the Korean War.
3. Hackworth’s military decorations include ten Silver Stars and eight Purple Hearts.
4. He was an outspoken critic of the U.S. military’s leadership during the Vietnam War, which led to his controversial retirement.
5. After his military career, Hackworth became a successful author and military journalist.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from David Hackworth
1. “If a policy is wrong or ineffective, it should be challenged and changed.”
2. “In combat, actions speak louder than words.”
3. “The object of war is not to die for your country but to make the other bastard die for his.”
4. “True leaders are those who lead by example, not by rank or position.”
5. “A soldier’s primary duty is to survive and complete the mission.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, David Hackworth’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million, largely due to his successful books and journalism.
Children
David Hackworth had four children: David, Joel, Lesley, and Shannon.
Relevant Links
1. [David Hackworth Biography](https://www.historynet.com/david-hackworth
3. [David Hackworth’s Military Awards](https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/14302
4. [Hackworth’s Contributions to Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/authors/david-hackworth
