Harlan Nelson

Private Harlan "Bud" Nelson was born on April 24, 1924, in St. Paul, Nebraska, to Otto and Margaret Nelson. He grew up in St. Paul and graduated from St. Paul High School in 1942. After high school, he attended Hastings College for one year before enlisting in the Army. He later returned to Hastings College and graduated in 1949.

Harlan entered the U.S. Army on April 8, 1943, and received basic training in Aberdeen, Maryland. He arrived in Liverpool, England, on February 18, 1945, and was later stationed in France, Germany, and Belgium. During his time in the Army, he earned several WWII medals, including Carbine Expert, European Campaign, and Good Conduct.

After returning home from service, Harlan married Emma Rasmussen in June 1947. They had three children: Victor, Janet, and Linda, along with six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Harlan worked in education, serving as Superintendent in Campbell and Cairo, and as assistant principal at Walnut Junior High.

Upon retirement, Bud and Emma enjoyed traveling, collecting antiques, and attending garage sales. They also cherished attending the sporting events of their children and grandchildren.