Jack Hohlfeld to be honored with flags at half-staff

“Sgt. Jack Hohlfeld was a decorated military hero who selflessly answered the call to serve and gave his life defending the values ​​and freedoms we as a nation hold most dear,” Evers said. “It is our responsibility to make sure no hero is ever left behind, no matter how many years have passed, and it is an honor to be able to help welcome Sergeant Hohlfeld back to his home so that he may be laid to rest.”

Born in Vernon County and raised in La Crosse and Trempealeau counties, Hohlfeld voluntarily enlisted in the US Army in 1938 and was assigned to the Philippines as a member of the Headquarters Squadron, 24th Pursuit Group.

Hohlfeld was a member of Headquarters Squadron, 24th Pursuit Group, when the Japanese invaded the Philippines in December 1941.

While intense fighting occurred, those on the Bataan Peninsula surrendered in April 1942. Hohlfeld, along with thousands of other US and Filipino service members, were taken captive from the surrendered peninsula and later the surrendered Corregidor Island.

He survived the Bataan Death March and made his way to Cabanatuan POW Camp No. 1, where he died on Dec. 26, 1942, according to prison camp and other records. He was buried with five others in Common Grave 811 at the Cabanatuan Camp Cemetery.

His remains were eventually rescued after the war by the American Graves Registration Service personnel and were relocated to Manila in the Philippines.

Hohlfeld was officially identified on May 29 and will be buried Monday in La Crosse.