Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
Arne
Stenslie
1890-12-10

–

1968-02-28

Born:

Gjovik

, 

Norway

Home:

Devils Lake

, 

North Dakota

Arne Stenslie emigrated to the U.S. from Norway and entered military service in 1917, serving in World War I. Discharged after the war, he became a farmer for a brief time, returning to service in 1933 and serving throughout World War II. As an Army Captain, he was forced to retire at age 60, but gave up his commission to reenlist as an NCO. In July 1950 Master Sergeant Stenslie deployed to Korea with the 2d Infantry Division, and was the only person to serve with the Division through the entirety of the Korean War and return to the U.S. with the Division in 1954. In the first year of the war he earned the Silver Star at age 60, and is the only person authorized TEN battle stars on his Korean Service Ribbon. He retired in 1954 as a U.S. Army Master Sergeant.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Master Sergeant

    Regiment:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 26, 1950
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 250 (1952)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Arne Stenslie (ASN: RA-84842), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 26 November 1950, near Kuchangdong, Korea. Master Sergeant Stenslie organized and led the defense of a front line position near Kuchangdon. With complete disregard for his safety, Sergeant Stenslie personally verified the positions of enemy troops and led an attack. Later he heard American voices several hundred yards to the flank of his position. Again the sergeant went out by himself during heavy enemy mortar and small arms fire in an effort to lead the cut-off men to friendly positions. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.