He was to become a renowned literary figure later in his life, but at this time he was simply a heroic ambulance driver who, on this day, was shot while carrying a companion to safety while serving on the Austria Italy front.

He was given an award for this act of bravery and sent home.

The Liberty Bell was situated in the tower of the USA's capital building (at the time) the Pennsylvania State House (now known as Independence Hall). It rang to summon citizens to hear the reading of the Declaration of Independence which had been adopted on July 4th 1776.

The bell has the following inscription on it:

"Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land unto All the Inhabitants Thereof"