John L. Opgrand, a man of strength and charm, embarked on his life journey on April 3rd, 1917, as the fifth of sixteen children born to Anton and Gida (Eina) Opgrand in the town of Hitterdal, Minnesota. Raised in the charming town of Ulen, John’s vibrant spirit and athletic skill shone through during his high school years, endearing him to all his friends and family who cherished his humorous nature. 
John’s destiny took a patriotic turn when, on October 27th, 1939, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the US Army Air Corp. As a Private First-Class in the US Army Air Corp, he proudly served with the 19th Squadron, 20th Air Base Group. Remarkably, John was part of a true family legacy of service, as four of his brothers were serving their country at the same time during World War II.
In a fateful chapter of his military service, John was sent to the Philippines, where he displayed unwavering bravery and dedication to his duty. However, the uncertainties of war would cast their shadow upon him, as he was captured and became a prisoner of war. He was part of the Bataan Death March in which he survived, later being confined in the Cabanatuan POW camp in the Province of Nueva Ecija, Luzon Island, in the Philippine Islands.
Tragically, on June 10, 1942, John died as a POW, marking the end of a young life full of promise. His selfless sacrifice did not go unnoticed, as the nation posthumously honored him with an array of distinguished awards, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Prisoner of War Medal, and the Army Good Conduct Medal, among others.
Though John’s physical presence may have been lost, his name is eternally inscribed on the Wall of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery in Taguig City, Philippines. There, he stands among countless American heroes who bravely faced the unknown, their resting places forever elusive. His sacrifice remains a testament to the unyielding commitment of our armed forces and a symbol of our nation’s resilience.
John’s legacy continues through his cousins, nieces and nephews, many whom live in the region having ties to the Ada, Ulen, Hitterdal and Twin Valley communities.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 10:00am at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ulen, MN to celebrate and honor the life of John Opgrand – a true American patriot who selflessly served his county with unwavering dedication. All those who wish to pay their respects are welcome to attend. The service will be recorded and available to view on the Anderson Family Funeral Home website following the service. www.andersonfamilyfh.com
Gone but not forgotten.
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