Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
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FARGO, N.D. – U.S Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, and the Cass County Veteran Service office (VSO) honored 96-year-old World War II Veteran Vern Otterson of Fargo with a flag which had flown over the U.S. Capitol. After growing up on a farm near Kindred, Mr. Otterson enlisted in the U.S. Army and served overseas as a medic-MP in General George S. Patton’s 3rd Army.
“Vern Otterson is the embodiment of our greatest generation. With a high school education in tow, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and left North Dakota for the Western Front. Because of brave soldiers like Mr. Otterson and his fellow countrymen, the Allied Powers defeated Nazi Germany, dismantled fascist rule in Europe, and ended the Holocaust. We are forever indebted to Mr. Otterson for his valiant service to our great country. The flag we presented today is a small token of our appreciation for his heroic dedication and sacrifice,” said Senator Cramer.
“For the last two years I’ve had the pleasure of working with Vern, trying to assist him with benefits. He’s a true hero and remarkable man whose stories are just as amazing as his service to our country. He’s one of the last WWII veterans in the state and has taught me to never give up on your goals, no matter your age,” said Christopher J. Deery, Veteran Service Officer, Cass County Veteran Service.
During the ceremony, Senator Cramer thanked Mr. Otterson for his military service, especially his time in France during World War II in which he fought in the Battle of the Bulge. Senator Cramer has also signed a letter of support for a Purple Heart medal for Mr. Otterson recognizing the wounds he suffered in France during the war.