Captain Arlo Laverne Olson, A Soldier's Story
Captain Arlo Laverne Olson, A Soldier's Story
Captain Arlo Laverne Olson was born on April 20, 1918, in Greenville, Iowa. When he was ten years old, his family relocated to Toronto, South Dakota, where Olson spent his formative years. He attended Toronto High School, earning the rank of Eagle Scout, an early reflection of the leadership and discipline that would define his life.
Following his graduation in 1936, Olson enrolled at the University of South Dakota. There, he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and participated in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC), preparing for military service as global tensions mounted. He graduated in the spring of 1940 and was immediately called to active duty with the United States Army as the nation began mobilizing for World War II.
Captain Olson was assigned to the 15th Infantry Regiment and later deployed to the Italian Campaign. In October 1943, during operations near the Volturno River, Olson led his company in an assault intended to secure the summit of Monte San Nicola, a strategically important and heavily defended position.
Beginning on October 13, 1943, Olson and his men came under intense and sustained enemy fire. Despite overwhelming opposition, Captain Olson repeatedly exposed himself to danger, leading offensive actions against enemy strongpoints. During the fighting, he repeatedly seized live grenades thrown into his company’s positions and hurled them back at the enemy, preventing casualties among his men. He personally attacked and neutralized enemy emplacements, inspiring his soldiers to hold their ground under extreme conditions.
On October 27, 1943, near the summit of Monte San Nicola, Captain Olson was severely wounded. Even then, he refused to order an immediate evacuation until he had ensured his company was securely positioned in defense. Only after his men were safe did he permit himself to be carried from the battlefield. Captain Arlo Laverne Olson succumbed to his wounds the following day, on October 28, 1943, during his evacuation.
For his extraordinary heroism, conspicuous gallantry, and unwavering leadership, Captain Olson was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
He is buried at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota. His legacy is also honored in Toronto, South Dakota, where a memorial stands at the corner of Dakota Street and Lewis and Clark Avenue, ensuring his courage and sacrifice are remembered by the community he once called home.
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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life
She shares her journeys at Take the Back Roads, explores new reads at Rite of Fancy, and highlights U.S. military biographies at Everyday Patriot.
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