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You’ve likely never heard of Levaughn “Von” Austin. He was a football star of the 1940’s, but might have been even bigger if not for his choice to serve his nation during World War II.
Friday night, Austin was honored prior to Mountain Grove’s game against Salem. The 91-year-old Austin stood at the 50 yard line as he was presented a plaque depicting his many accomplishments.
“It pleases me a great deal and I really appreciate it,” said Austin.
In 1940 he was a freshman and played line for the Panthers. By 1942 he switched to running back where he was one of the top players in Southwest Missouri. Austin scored 19 touchdowns during his senior season, earning MVP honors of the “Ozark Bowl” in which he scored all three of the Panthers’ touchdowns. His 33 career touchdowns is still top 10 in school history.
His football acolades are impressive enough, but it was the decision he made after high school that’s even more awe inspiring.
College football coaches came calling, but Austin chose to join the Navy during the thick of World War II.
“I went to the Navy, but I had a chance to go to three different colleges after it was over,” Austin explained his decision.
“I had a brother in there and I wanted to see him.”
Austin watched as his alma mater improved to 6-1 with a 55-0 win over Salem.
