Fargo World War II veteran hero to be honored with flag presentation

By Forum staff

August 18, 2022 04:05 PM

CASS COUNTY — Cass County has announced that Vern Otterson, a 96-year-old Fargo native and World War II veteran, will be presented with a flag in honor of the sacrifices he made during his service.

U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., will deliver the flag to Otterson at Eventide Care Center in south Fargo on Thursday, Aug. 25, at 11 a.m., according to a release from Cass County.

The flag being presented was formerly flown at the U.S. Capitol.

In September 1944, Otterson suffered injuries to his arms, legs and forehead after a group of soldiers stepped on a landmine near his location.

Otterson did not receive medical attention after the blow so he could continue to fight among his fellow soldiers and for his country.

In May of 2022, he was denied a request to receive the Purple Heart Award. The award honors U.S. military members who were wounded or killed during their service.

An earlier version of this story incorrectly said where the flag being presented was flown. It was flown at the U.S. Capitol.

By Forum staff

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Fargo World War II veteran hero to be honored with flag presentation

Vern Otterson, a 96-year-old World War II veteran, will be presented with flag for his heroic duty. The Fargo native will receive the flag from Sen. Kevin Cramer.