Memorial

Biography

When searching for a picture, our co-worker came in to contact with his niece Lynn Allen. She wrote the following: "My uncle was a highly respected community member, a beloved son and brother. My grandparents, his parents, were Danish immigrants. A number of years ago at a WWII reunion type function my mother and aunt spoke with a man who had served under my uncle and this gentleman said John was leading his men on a march out since Armistice was imminent and according to this man, essentially the war was over. A German sniper shot my uncle during that march out of the area after the Germans had surrendered. This gentleman still harbored bitter feelings over it as he said John Jensen was a good leader and he was highly respected. I think of it often when I curse at the absurdity of wars. But anyway, I do not know the facts and I do not know why folks referred to him as an officer but at his death the military has him listed as PFC. It is one of those things that no longer matter."

More information

Pfc John W. Jensen's parents were Danish immigrants.

He graduated from Lottsville High School in 1937 and was employed by the Carnation Milk Plant.

He enlisted in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania on 25 April 1944.

A letter received by Mr. and Mrs. John Jensen Sr., of Bear Lake is as follows:
"As Commanding General of the 104th Division, permit me to offer my deepest sympathy because of the death of your son, Private First Class John W. Jensen, 3396178, a member of this division, who was killed in action in Germany on 13 April 1945.
I feel deeply saddened because of our necessary casualties of the battlefield. It has always been my endeavor to accomplish our combat missions with the minimum damage to my own soldiers, but battle casualties are part of the cost that must be paid by a combat division, which is being used in the forefront of a major offensive.
Your son died a hero's death on the battlefield. His memory will always be cherished in the Timber Wolf Division. The devotion to duty of our gallant dead will always be an inspiration to our remaining soldiers in finishing the task which lies ahead.
I realize what sad news this must be. You have my deepest sympathy. Very sincerely, (signed) Terry Allen."