Roland L Bragg Biography – Explore the life of Roland L. Bragg, a decorated World War II paratrooper honored with the Silver Star. Learn about his early years, military service, family, post-war career, and the renaming of Fort Bragg in his memory.
Roland Leon Bragg was a United States Army paratrooper, businessman, and war hero who played a pivotal role in World War II. Serving in the 17th Airborne Division, he demonstrated extraordinary bravery, which earned him the Silver Star and the Purple Heart. After the war, he became a successful entrepreneur, running businesses in construction and lumber. His legacy was further cemented in 2025 when Fort Liberty was renamed Fort Roland L. Bragg in his honor.
Bragg’s story is one of resilience, courage, and dedication, both on the battlefield and in civilian life. From humble beginnings in Maine to the battlegrounds of Europe and later to a thriving business career, his life is an inspiring tale of perseverance and valor.
Roland L Bragg Biography: Personal Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Roland Leon Bragg |
| Profession | U.S. Army Paratrooper, Mechanic, Business Owner |
| Nationality | American |
| Date of Birth | June 11, 1923 |
| Place of Birth | Sabattus, Maine, U.S. |
| Date of Death | January 12, 1999 |
| Place of Death | Nobleboro, Maine, U.S. |
| Spouse | Barbara Picinich |
| Children | Three |
| Father-in-law | Val Picinich (Boston Red Sox catcher) |
| Military Service | U.S. Army (1943–1945) |
| Rank | Private First Class |
| Unit | 513th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 17th Airborne Division |
| Famous For | Namesake of Fort Bragg |
| Battles | Battle of the Bulge, World War II |
| Awards | Silver Star, Purple Heart |
Key Takeaways
- Roland L. Bragg was a decorated U.S. Army paratrooper who fought in World War II.
- He was awarded the Silver Star and the Purple Heart for his bravery.
- He owned and operated a body shop and a moving company after the war.
- He was married to Barbara Picinich and had three children.
- In 2025, Fort Liberty was renamed Fort Bragg in his honor.
Early Life and Family
Roland Leon Bragg was born on June 11, 1923, in Sabattus, Maine, to Calvin Leroy Bragg and Ella Stevenson Bragg. He grew up during the Great Depression, which instilled in him a strong work ethic from an early age. To help his family financially, he sold vegetables from their farm, ensuring that they could keep up with mortgage payments.
Bragg attended Waldoboro High School and graduated in 1943. In his twenties, he married Barbara Picinich, whose father, Val Picinich, was a well-known catcher for the Boston Red Sox. Together, they had three children and built a stable and loving family life.
Military Service in World War II
Bragg enlisted in the U.S. Army in July 1943 at the height of World War II. He was stationed at Fort Bragg, where he trained as a paratrooper before being deployed to Europe. Serving with the 513th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 17th Airborne Division, he played a critical role in the Battle of the Bulge, one of the war’s most significant and grueling confrontations.
One of his most remarkable and heroic actions was stealing a German ambulance to rescue a wounded American soldier. Despite the dangers involved, Bragg drove the ambulance through enemy territory to an Allied hospital in Belgium, saving his comrade’s life. This act of bravery earned him widespread admiration and demonstrated his unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers.
Awards and Military Recognition
Bragg’s exceptional courage did not go unnoticed. In 1945, he was awarded the Silver Star, one of the highest military honors for valor in combat. This prestigious award is given to soldiers who demonstrate gallantry in action against an enemy force.
Additionally, he received the Purple Heart, an honor awarded to those wounded in battle. His sacrifices and bravery cemented his place in history as a true American hero.
Post-War Career and Business Ventures
After his honorable discharge from the Army in 1945, Bragg returned to civilian life and pursued a career in business. He initially owned and operated a body shop, specializing in automobile repairs. His entrepreneurial skills soon led him to establish Nobleboro Building Movers, a company that successfully relocated and rebuilt structures for 25 years.
Even after retiring in 1984, Bragg remained active. He ran a portable sawmill business, working with lumber and construction well into his later years. His work ethic and ability to adapt to different industries showcased his resilience and determination.
Death and Legacy
On January 12, 1999, Bragg passed away at the age of 75 after battling cancer. He was laid to rest at Dunbar Cemetery in Nobleboro, Maine. His legacy, however, would continue to grow long after his passing.
The Renaming of Fort Bragg
Originally named after Confederate General Braxton Bragg, Fort Bragg was one of several military bases under scrutiny due to their association with Confederate leaders. In 2022, Bragg’s name was included on a shortlist of candidates for the renaming of military bases.
In February 2025, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth officially renamed Fort Liberty to Fort Roland L. Bragg to honor his extraordinary service and heroism. This decision represented a shift in recognizing American military heroes who embodied bravery and selfless service.
Interesting Facts About Roland L. Bragg
- He helped support his family financially by selling vegetables as a child.
- He served in the Battle of the Bulge, one of the most critical battles of World War II.
- He stole a German ambulance and used it to save a fellow soldier.
- His father-in-law, Val Picinich, played for the Boston Red Sox.
- He ran a successful structural moving company for 25 years.
- Fort Bragg was renamed in his honor in 2025.
Conclusion to Roland L Bragg Biography
Roland L. Bragg’s life was defined by service, bravery, and perseverance. From his humble beginnings in Maine to his heroic feats on the battlefield and his successful career in business, he left an enduring impact on both his country and community. His acts of valor during World War II earned him high military honors, while his post-war achievements showcased his dedication to hard work and resilience.
The renaming of Fort Bragg in his memory stands as a powerful tribute to his service and sacrifices, ensuring that his legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
FAQs About Roland L Bragg Biography
1. Who was Roland L. Bragg?
Roland L. Bragg was a U.S. Army paratrooper who served in World War II, earning the Silver Star and the Purple Heart for his bravery.
2. What heroic act made Bragg famous?
During the Battle of the Bulge, Bragg stole a German ambulance and used it to save a wounded American soldier’s life.
3. Why was Fort Bragg renamed after him?
Fort Bragg, originally named after Confederate General Braxton Bragg, was renamed in 2025 to honor Roland L. Bragg’s bravery and service.
4. What businesses did Bragg own after the war?
He owned a body shop, ran Nobleboro Building Movers, and later operated a portable sawmill business.
5. Where is Roland L. Bragg buried?
He is buried at Dunbar Cemetery in Nobleboro, Maine.
