National Guard Celebrates Minnesota WWII Hero’s 102nd Birthday
Arden Hills, MN (KROC-AM News) - A celebration is planned on Monday for the 102nd birthday of a Minnesota World War II veteran.
A news release issued by the Minnesota National Guard says Don Halverson will be awarded the Order of Saint George-Bronze Medallion during an event at the home of the 34th Infantry Division "Red Bull" Headquarters in Arden Hills. The statement indicates Halverson was nominated for the honor due to his demonstrated tactical and technical competence and overall contributions throughout World War II.
“As a fellow Red Bull Soldier, it is an honor to present this distinguished award to Mr. Halverson,” said Army Lt. Col. Peter Rampart, 1st Squadron, 94th Cavalry Commander. “Technical Sgt. Halverson’s record of service is truly extraordinary, and it is humbling to be in his presence today to present this award.”
According to the Minnesota National Guard, Halverson joined the U.S. Army in 1943 and led a platoon of soldiers as they moved north from Naples, Italy to the border of Switzerland. The news release says he led his team of machine gun and mortar squadrons through three years of “costly, lengthy, but ultimately successful battles.”
Halverson was awarded the Bronze Star, the Distinguished Unit Badge, and the Combat Infantry man's Badge for his service in the U.S. Army. The news release also indicates he was present for the surrender of the German 34th Infantry Division in 1945.
Following his return to Minnesota following the war, he married his wife, Bernice and the couple stayed together for 62 years before her death in 2010.
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