Herman Wedemeyer

Uncover the captivating story of Herman Wedemeyer, the elusive halfback from Hawaii who became a college football legend and a beloved television star.

Born on May 20, 1924, in the picturesque town of Hilo, Hawaii, Herman Wedemeyer, affectionately known as "Squirmin' Herman," left an indelible mark on American culture through his athletic prowess and later his acting career. Growing up in the islands, Wedemeyer journeyed to the mainland to attend Saint Mary's College in Moraga, California. His time with the Gaels, interrupted briefly by service in the Merchant Marines during World War II, showcased an electrifying talent that captivated the nation.

✦ College Career

Wedemeyer's career at Saint Mary's spanned the 1943 season and then 1945 through 1947. Despite the college's small enrollment during the war years, the football team, coached by Jimmie Phelan, garnered significant attention. Wedemeyer was the undeniable star, his dazzling runs and versatility earning him a plethora of colorful nicknames like "The Flyin' Hawaiian," "The Hawaiian Centipede," and "The Hula-Hipped Hawaiian." His impact was undeniable, leading the team to victories over powerhouse programs like California and USC, drawing massive crowds to their games. In 1945, his stellar performance earned him unanimous All-America honors, a fourth-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting, and recognition as third in the nation in total offense, fourth in passing, and fourth in punting. His college career was highlighted by long runs of 73 and 70 yards in 1946 and an 85-yard pass play the same year. Wedemeyer's athletic gifts extended beyond the gridiron, as he also excelled in baseball, golf, and boxing.

✦ Road to the Pro Game

Wedemeyer's exceptional college career led to him being a first-round draft choice of the Los Angeles Dons in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1948. While he showcased his versatility by leading the AAFC in punt return yardage as a rookie, he was surprisingly waived by the Dons. He then joined the AAFC's Baltimore Colts for the 1949 season before retiring from professional football.

✦ Football Legacy

Herman Wedemeyer's football legacy rests firmly on his remarkable college career at Saint Mary's. He was a human highlight reel, a dynamic player who could run, pass, kick, and even intercept passes (recording nine in 1945). He was the first consensus All-American from Hawaii and remains the only Heisman finalist from the state and Saint Mary's. His electrifying play made the Gaels a national attraction during his time there, and his unanimous All-America selection in 1945 cemented his status as a college football icon. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1979 was a fitting tribute to his outstanding contributions to the sport. However, Wedemeyer's legacy extends beyond the football field. After his brief professional career, he transitioned to acting in Hollywood, achieving widespread fame as Detective Duke Lukela on the long-running hit television series Hawaii Five-O, further solidifying his place in popular culture. He also served in Hawaiian politics, demonstrating a diverse and impactful life journey.

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

✦ Consensus All-American (1945)

✦ Second-team All-American (1946)

✦ 3× First-team All-PCC (1943, 1945, 1946)

✦ Second-team All-PCC (1947)

✦ Finished 4th in Heisman Trophy voting (1945)

✦ Finished 6th in Heisman Trophy voting (1946)

✦ Led AAFC in Punt Return Yardage (1948)

✦ College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1979)

✦ Hawaii Sports Hall of Fame Inductee (1998)

✦ Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2014)

✦ College Stats Highlights: 202 kick return yards and 2 TD passes in a game vs. California (1945); Longest Runs: 73 yds vs. Santa Clara, 70 yds vs. California (1946); Longest Pass: 85 yds vs. Fordham (1946).

✦ Professional Stats (AAFC): 25 Games, 540 Rushing Yards, 46 Receptions, 442 Receiving Yards, 2 Total Touchdowns.