As the buzzards begin to circle over the career of one of America's most powerful and longest-serving African American Congressional Committee Chairmen, Charles Rangel, it's interesting to speculate on how he must feel looking back on his extraordinary life. As the Rush Limbaughs, Sean Hannitys and Glen Becks of 2010 line up to denounce him for his (apparent) ethical lapses, he must be having a really bad day... Or maybe not...
Rangel enlisted in the army in 1947 and was deployed to Korea during the early days of the Korean War. He was a member of the all-black 503rd Field Artillery Battalion in the 2nd Infantry Division. Though only a private first class, he was often recognized for his strong sense of leadership.
This ability was put to the test in November of 1950, during the Battle of Kunu-ri. Despite shrapnel wounds, Rangel led 40 of his comrades for three days behind enemy lines in freezing temperatures rather than surrender, avoiding a deadly Chinese encirclement.
He was later recognized for his bravery with the Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, a Presidential Unit Citation, the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, and three battle stars.
After an honorable discharge from the Army, Rangel returned home a changed man. He decided to finish high school, completing two years of studies in only one year. He earned his G.E.D. in 1953, and went on to attend the New York University School of Commerce. There he used his military benefits to finance a four-year degree, which he earned in three years, while also making the dean's list.
He went on to serve 40 years in the Congress of the United States.
"Since Kunu-ri ," Rangel says, "I have never, never had a bad day."