Remember this name Richard Keith Sorenson. The Richard Keith Sorenson War memorial stands as a testament to extraordinary bravery. It honors a man who epitomized self-sacrifice.
Richard Keith Sorenson was born in Anoka Minnesota. He was a United States Marine. Sorenson received the Medal of Honor. This recognition was for his actions during World War II.
The specific act of heroism occurred on Kwajalein Atoll. It happened during the night of February 1 to 2 in 1944. Private Sorenson threw himself on a Japanese grenade. This grenade was captured from US munitions. It was taken during the Battle of Bataan.
Sorenson’s selfless act saved the lives of five fellow Marines. The grenade’s fragments ripped through his thighs hips right arm and right leg. Amazingly Richard Keith Sorenson survived. He was one of only four Marines to live. These Marines had similarly thrown themselves on grenades during World War II.
Richard Keith Sorenson continued his service. He remained in the Marine Corps. He was discharged in 1946 as a sergeant. Sorenson enlisted in the Reserves in 1947. He reached the rank of master sergeant. In 1953 he became a Marine Corps officer. Sorenson stayed in the Corps until 1955.
The Medal of Honor citation details his valor. It mentions his intrepidity at the risk of his life. This was beyond the call of duty. It happened during the battle of Namur Island. The citation highlights Sorenson’s brave defense. He faced a violent counterattack. Sorenson and five other Marines were in a shellhole. A Japanese grenade landed among them. Without hesitation Sorenson threw himself on the grenade. This absorbed the full impact. His comrades were saved.
Richard Keith Sorenson’s actions embody the highest traditions. These traditions belong to the U.S. Naval Service.
After leaving the Marine Corps Richard Keith Sorenson worked for the Veterans Administration. This lasted until 1957. He then became an insurance underwriter for 10 years. Sorenson returned to the V.A. He retired as director of Veterans Affairs. This was for the state of Nevada. It also included nine counties of California in 1985.
Richard Keith Sorenson died at the age of 80. He is buried with full military honors. His final resting place is Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.
The Richard Keith Sorenson War memorial serves as a reminder. It honors his exceptional valor. It also commemorates his great spirit of self-sacrifice. His legacy continues to inspire. It reminds us of the price of freedom.