Johnnie David Hutchins, a Weimar native and Eagle Lake High graduate, gave his life steering his ship to safety during World War II. At 21, he was mortally wounded but still managed to maneuver his tank landing ship away from an incoming torpedo, saving his crew. For his heroism, he posthumously received the Medal of Honor in 1944. Hutchins was later laid to rest in Lakeside Cemetery near Eagle Lake. His bravery is now honored at the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, alongside other Wharton County heroes.