Richard Flaherty lived an incredible life. I thought this was satire at first glance, but no, he really did serve at that height. Never heard of him before now.
In combat era photos, he looks as small as a child.
He was tougher than nails. Flaherty had a record of service any man of any size would be proud of.
I don’t know why an exception was made for him, but the war effort was better off for it.
Maybe the exception was made because they needed tunnel rats?
Four feet, Nine inches and 97 pounds in Stature
Six feet, Six inches and 245 pounds in Manhood.