Alvin C. York was an American soldier during World War I, born on December 13, 1887, in Pall Mall, Tennessee. He is best known for his heroic actions during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in 1918, where he single-handedly captured 132 German soldiers. His bravery earned him the Medal of Honor, making him one of the most decorated American soldiers of the war. After the war, York became a national hero and used his fame to promote peace and education. He returned to his hometown, where he established the Alvin C. York Institute, a school aimed at helping local children. York passed away on September 2, 1964.