Forrest Swanson

Forrest Junior Swanson was born in Shickley, Nebraska, October 11, 1918 to Torrey and Anne Swanson. He grew up in Burwell, Nebraska. He had three brothers Robert, Con and Rodney. 

Forrest (Frosty) married Ohleen Hoppes October 13, 1940. Frosty entered active service with the Army May 14, 1943. Basic training was at Fort Knox, Kentucky. July 14, 1944 Forrest departed for the European, African, Middle Eastern Theater. His battles and campaigns include: GO 33 WD 45, Northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland, and Central Europe. First Sergeant Swanson was part of the 10th Armored Division He was sent to Sierck, France (90th-Calvery-Reconnaissance-Squadron). 

 He had the wrong MOS and knew little about reconnaissance, he requested to be reduced to a private so that he might earn his stripes in that troop. He was dropped one grade. His energetic spirit and determination soon got him his “top kick’s” stripes back. 

 He earned the title of “first soldier of the troop”. Forrest received the bronze star and good conduct metal. He returned home on 2/03/1946. Frosty and Ohleen adopted three children, Danny, Connie and Pam. Frosty was a good and unselfish man. He loved his family and everybody he knew loved him.