This was written by sixth-grade student Joe Nordstrom from Elk River as part of a Smithsonian Museum history project his teacher Ron Hustvedt created. Joe would love for your readers to learn about Palmer Narveson, especially if he has any family still in the area.

 

Palmer O. Narveson

I like to introduce Palmer Narveson, who was born in Twin Lakes, Minn., and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross Medal for extraordinary heroism. He was a sergeant at the battle in Bellicourt, France, where he put his life on the line. This soldier should be remembered for all things he did. He was just an ordinary guy. He did ordinary stuff until he was brave enough to do the act I am going to tell you about.

When separated from the other soldiers, Palmer put his life on the line. People were firing from three directions and he took action. He attacked a machine gunner and took it out. Then he reduced a second hostile position. Then he refused to evacuate and kept going.

This was the battle at Bellicourt, France. This battle moved the Germans back. It helped the United States. This was one battle out of many. This was a battle he put his life on the line.

The Distinguished Service Cross medal is the second highest award. It is awarded to someone who stood out by putting their life on the line. The qualifications are extraordinary heroism, engaged in military operations, putting life at risk. He met extraordinary heroism. He should be remembered because he helped the U.S.

He also put his life on the line. It says “for valor” on it. The ribbon is red, white and blue. It has an empty spot for your name. He was just an ordinary guy and became an amazing man.

He lived in a small town and eventually became very brave. This is an action that I wouldn’t have done, and I can 100 percent tell you that you wouldn’t have. This is a big thing that happened to Twin Lakes. It’s a very big honor that they awarded to this ordinary guy. This war could’ve been worse if he didn’t do that. I cannot tell you any more how much he deserves to be recognized.

— Joe Nordstrom

 

Ron Hustvedt

Elk River