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1st Lt Harold D. Swan received a B.A. degree from the University of Nebraska and was working on a law degree at the time he enrolled in the R.O.T.C. in March 1942 at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was sent overseas in September 1944.

He was reported wounded in action on 23 February 1945. Released from a hospital in Belgium on 14 March 1945, Swan had just returned to combat on 22 March 1945,

He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. The citation cited: On 14 November 1944, leaving the cover of his command post, he personally reported injuries of his men to his commanding officer. He then returned and organized the evacuation of his wounded men and saw that the rest were taken care of. Several of his men were wounded seriously and his capable direction and organization of his situation was superior and probably saved the lives of the wounded men.

He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross posthumously. The citation cited: For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company I, 406th Infantry Regiment, 102d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 10 April 1945. 1st Lt Swan's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 102d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

His brother Richard served with the Army Air Corps.