calsfoundation@cals.org
June 13, 1933
William Orlando Darby, who was born in Fort Smith (Sebastian County), graduated from West Point Military Academy. Darby is best remembered for his organization of the First Ranger Battalion, an elite commando unit that was especially distinguished in Italy during World War II. He was known as an exemplary leader in combat and received many military honors, including the distinction of being the only soldier to be promoted posthumously to brigadier general.