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Fallen Vietnam Vet Fred D. Larson
Episode 3052 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the bridge dedication in South Dakota honoring fallen Vietnam Veteran Fred D. Larson. The featured story appeared on KXLG of Pollock, South Dakota. It was submitted by Steve Jurrens.
It was reported that The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will host a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. CT, to honor U.S. Army Private First-Class Fred D. Larson, a local hero who was killed in action during the Vietnam War. The ceremony will take place at the Pollock Community Center, located at 916 F. Avenue.
The SD10 bridge over Lake Pocasse, situated just east of Pollock, will be officially dedicated as the PFC Fred D. Larson Bridge. This dedication is part of the Fallen Heroes Bridge Dedication Program, a statewide initiative launched during the Noem-Rhoden Administration and expanded under Governor Rhoden. The program, a cooperative effort between the South Dakota Departments of Military, Transportation, and Veterans Affairs, aims to create lasting tributes that connect communities to their history and remind future generations of the sacrifices made for freedom.
PFC Fred D. Larson was born in Pollock on June 22, 1949. He was drafted into the U.S. Army on August 19, 1969, and deployed to Vietnam on January 15, 1970, serving with the 6th Battalion, 11th Artillery, C Battery. Tragically, on April 24, 1970, which was also his mother’s 55th birthday, PFC Larson was killed in action near Lang Dong Ban in Quang Ngai Province, South Vietnam. He bravely volunteered to search a suspected enemy dwelling and triggered a land mine.
“It is an honor to recognize the brave men and women who gave their lives for our freedom,” stated Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jeremiah Schneider. “The Fallen Hero Bridge Dedication program ensures their sacrifice is remembered every day. These dedications serve as lasting symbols of gratitude and respect, connecting our communities to the legacy of those who served.”
Listen to Episode 3052 and discover more about the bridge dedication in South Dakota honoring fallen Vietnam Veteran Fred D. Larson.
