06/24/2024
CHI Health at Home – Bismarck “We Honor Veterans” program had the privilege and honor to recognize John’s military service during his Veteran Pinning Ceremony. Honored to participate in the ceremony were his daughter Paula, his son Kevin, and his daughter-in-law Rachel. John received a Quilt of Valor in June 2022.
John enlisted in the United States Army in February 1951, serving in the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged in February 1953. His duty stations include E Company 369th EASR, Fort Worden, WA and Camp Desert Rock, Nevada. Camp Desert Rock was operated during the 1950s as the garrison for multi-service contingents participating in nuclear testing programs. The testing simulated the atomic battlefield with military personnel, equipment, and weapons. The troops were moved into trenches some distance from the detonation points and went through the blasts in protected positions. The participants were decontaminated prior to returning to Camp Desert Rock. John’s rank at discharge was Private 1st Class and his Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) was Atomic Bomb Testing. He had high security clearance due to this high-risk position. John was a member of the American Legion.
A memorable event during his service was seeing the atomic bomb.
“John, on behalf of the United States and CHI Health at Home – Bismarck “We Honor Veterans", thank you for your service.”