NDSU student Rachel Petersen worked to recover her grandfather’s lost award for military heroism and continues to increase awareness for veteran rights and recognition. 

Earl Kothman, Petersen’s grandfather, served in the Army during the Vietnam War.  He was nominated for the Bronze Star, a medal awarded for acts of heroism and meritorious service in a combat zone. The Bronze Star paperwork, however, was misplaced and Kothman never received his award.

Petersen worked with the United States military and government to recover the medal for her grandfather. A ceremony to honor Kothman is scheduled for January 22 in St. Paul, Minnesota. 

“He’s the most humble person I know,” Petersen said of her grandfather. “He’d never ask for or expect recognition for all his sacrifices as a soldier.” 

Because of her grandfather’s story, Petersen is working to establish a non-profit called Abiding Bronze Star to encourage other veterans to speak up about military commendations that have yet to be awarded.

Petersen, a freshman business administration and strategic communication major from St. Cloud, Minnesota, also is enlisting in the North Dakota Army National Guard and joining the NDSU Army ROTC.  

To follow Petersen’s efforts, visit her Facebook page.

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