Wilbur Almo Larson appointment as a Reserve Commissioned Officer in the Officers' Reserve Corps in the grade of Lieutenant Colonel, dated December 18, 1952. The Larson family was involved in a traffic accident in Waushara Co., WI, on August 4, 1956. The driver of the other vehicle was at fault, and was intoxicated. Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson, at the Larson home, 406 Washington St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh and Reed Larson's snow house, 406 S. Washington St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, about 1957. Pier, Pine Lake, Waushara Co., WI, June, 1957. Ruth (Bickett) Larson passport photo, about 1960. Bill and Ruth (Bickett) Larson in the Larson residence back yard, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, about 1960. L. M. Bickett Office Employee Christmas Party, Larson residence, 406 S. Washington Street, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, about 1960. Among those in the picture are Wilbur and Ruth Larson, Unknown, Joe J. Vara, Frieda Moldenhauer, Joe "Jeff" Jefferson, Joseph Neisius, and Jane Vara. The 1959 Wright's City Directory for Watertown, WI, shows Vara Joe J. (Jane) mach opr L M Bickett Co h701 1/2 N 2d Atty. Albert Maverick McNeel Jr. Letter to Wilbur Almo Larson, May 25, 1962. Olive Behling, Ruth Larson, and Bobbi Maas, golfers at Watertown Country Club, May, 1964. Bill and Ruth Larson's 25th Wedding Anniversary, Watertown, WI, 1965. Bill and Ruth Larson won first place in the Watertown Jaycees House Decoration Contest, December 24, 1965. Ruth Larson was a major player in the March 8, 1969, Watertown Curtain Club production of the play, "You Can't Take It With You." The Watertown Daily Times, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, Thursday, April 29, 1971. Country Club Activities For 1971 to Be Announced . . Ruth Larson and Golfing Ladies, Watertown Country Club, Emmett Twp., Dodge Co., WI. The 40th reunion of the Waupaca High School Class of 1931 was held July 24, 1971, at the Oakwood Supper Club, Waupaca, Waupaca Co, WI. . Polysar Progress, a publication of synthetic rubber polymer manufacturer Polysar, Ltd., Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, featured Hi-Life Runner Inc. in their March-April, 1975, edition. Wilbur Larson became a Delta Sigma Pi Life Member on December 15, 1977. Ruth Larson Photo I. D., January, 1978. . Bill and Ruth Larson took a cruise on the Delta Queen riverboat, about 1978. Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson created her Last Will and Testament on April 21, 1978, in Sun City, Maricopa Co., AZ. The 50th reunion of the Waupaca High School Class of 1931 was held August 8, 1981, at the Four Seasons Convention Center, Waupaca, Waupaca Co, WI.
The Larson family was involved in a traffic accident in Waushara Co., WI, on August 4, 1956. The driver of the other vehicle was at fault, and was intoxicated. Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson, at the Larson home, 406 Washington St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh and Reed Larson's snow house, 406 S. Washington St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, about 1957. Pier, Pine Lake, Waushara Co., WI, June, 1957. Ruth (Bickett) Larson passport photo, about 1960. Bill and Ruth (Bickett) Larson in the Larson residence back yard, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, about 1960. L. M. Bickett Office Employee Christmas Party, Larson residence, 406 S. Washington Street, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, about 1960. Among those in the picture are Wilbur and Ruth Larson, Unknown, Joe J. Vara, Frieda Moldenhauer, Joe "Jeff" Jefferson, Joseph Neisius, and Jane Vara. The 1959 Wright's City Directory for Watertown, WI, shows Vara Joe J. (Jane) mach opr L M Bickett Co h701 1/2 N 2d Atty. Albert Maverick McNeel Jr. Letter to Wilbur Almo Larson, May 25, 1962. Olive Behling, Ruth Larson, and Bobbi Maas, golfers at Watertown Country Club, May, 1964. Bill and Ruth Larson's 25th Wedding Anniversary, Watertown, WI, 1965. Bill and Ruth Larson won first place in the Watertown Jaycees House Decoration Contest, December 24, 1965. Ruth Larson was a major player in the March 8, 1969, Watertown Curtain Club production of the play, "You Can't Take It With You." The Watertown Daily Times, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, Thursday, April 29, 1971. Country Club Activities For 1971 to Be Announced . . Ruth Larson and Golfing Ladies, Watertown Country Club, Emmett Twp., Dodge Co., WI. The 40th reunion of the Waupaca High School Class of 1931 was held July 24, 1971, at the Oakwood Supper Club, Waupaca, Waupaca Co, WI. . Polysar Progress, a publication of synthetic rubber polymer manufacturer Polysar, Ltd., Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, featured Hi-Life Runner Inc. in their March-April, 1975, edition. Wilbur Larson became a Delta Sigma Pi Life Member on December 15, 1977. Ruth Larson Photo I. D., January, 1978. . Bill and Ruth Larson took a cruise on the Delta Queen riverboat, about 1978. Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson created her Last Will and Testament on April 21, 1978, in Sun City, Maricopa Co., AZ. The 50th reunion of the Waupaca High School Class of 1931 was held August 8, 1981, at the Four Seasons Convention Center, Waupaca, Waupaca Co, WI.
Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson and Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson, 1986. Wilbur Larson family at Ruth Larson's 70th birthday, Larson home, 406 S. Washington St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, December 23, 1986. By this time Ruth had been diagnosed with lung cancer, and was undergoing chemotherapy at her home. Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson died February 5, 1987, at Watertown Memorial Hospital, Watertown, Dodge Co., WI, at age 70. Inurnment in Sunland Memorial Park, Sun City, Maricopa Co., AZ. Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson Death Certificate. The Watertown Daily Times, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, Thursday, February 12, 1987 Mrs. Wilbur Larson Memorial services for Mrs. Wilbur (Ruth) Larson, 70, of Sun City, Ariz., formerly of Watertown, will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at the First Congregational United Church of Christ with the Rev. Robert Tully officiating. The Pederson Funeral Home of Watertown is serving the family. Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society or the First Congregational United Church of Christ. The former Ruth Bickett was born Dec. 23, 1916 in Yellow Springs, Ohio, daughter of Leroy and Gertrude Bickett. She married Wilbur A. Larson on March 2, 1940 in Dubuque, Iowa. She attended Watertown High School and Northwestern of Watertown. She attended the University of Wisconsin - Madison. She had been a member of the First Congregational United Church of Christ. Survivors include her husband; three sons, Leigh R. of Johnson Creek, Reed A. (Joyce) of Johnson Creek, Dr. Bruce D. (Jean) of Asheville, N.C.; four grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Victor (Helen) Fiegel of Elkhorn; two nephews and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents. Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson "The Final Call." Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson Memorial Card, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, February 14, 1987. After Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson died, Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson, a widower, married Cleo Elizabeth (Mickkleson) (Fuller) Anderson, a widow. Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson (age 74), a widower, and Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) (Fuller) Anderson (age 71), a widow, were married July 11, 1987, in Sun City West, Maricopa Co., AZ. Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson and Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) (Fuller) Anderson Wedding and Celebration announcements. Edrys Margaret "Ebbie" (Johnson) Indestad and Harold Henry Indestad. Photos taken in Deland, FL, in 1987. Harold died in December, 1987. Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) (Fuller) (Anderson) Larson tripped and fell in Park City, UT, in August, 1988, due to a defective sidewalk. Since the reason for the fall was with the City of Park City, Cleo was fully compensated for all medical costs. Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson and Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) (Fuller) (Anderson) Larson Holiday newsletter, December, 1988 - January, 1989. Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson and Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) (Fuller) (Anderson) Larson Family Holiday in the Caribbean. Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson at Forest Highland Golf Community, near Flagstaff, Coconino Co., AZ, September, 1989. December 1, 1989 Something very special is happening to us this year. We're celebrating our 25th year in business. It doesn't seem so long ago that, on December 1, 1964, I founded HI-LIFE RUBBER PRODUCTS as a sole proprietorship. The business started up in the former Hawthorn-Melody milk plant in Johnson Creek. Our ten-acre property lacked suitable electrical and plumbing services, but the main building was structurally sound, and the price was right. Let's just call it a "diamond-in-the-rough," with the emphasis on "rough." We served a small nucleus of customers with industrial molded goods and rubber office supply products. Setting the stage for the future, however, were a smattering of specialty milker inflations we made in our own-design transfer molding presses. I was the owner, salesman, office manager, chemist, payroll clerk and bill collector. I'm sure I left out some more, too. Let's just say I was very busy. I was also very fortunate to have my son Reed in the business from the very beginning. He was in charge of production as well as maintenance and shipping. His unique abilities, enthusiasm and hard work enabled us to get-the very most out of our limited budget. We started with a grand total of just seven employees, of which two were Larsons. As I look back, those early days were frightening, yet very challenging and exciting. Here I was, fifty years old and just starting out. I had no way of realizing the many good things that would eventually come our way. As we struggled to get on our feet we felt our best hope for growth was to specialize. We decided to make the products with the most sales potential - milker inflations. We learned the basics of inflation manufacturing with the help of a consultant, but were still lacking in several key areas. I was again fortunate when my son Leigh joined us in the fall of 1965, even though he had been helping right along in his spare time. As a mechanical engineer he brought us the needed skills of product and equipment design and mold making. We then made a company commitment to produce the very finest inflations found anywhere. Times can be tough for a "new kid on the block." We had few inflation customers and no established reputation for quality or delivery of these products. In fact, we had very few products, and you know a salesman can't sell out of an empty wagon. The decision to have our own line of unbranded inflations helped open the door to our farm store customers. As we made more molds our product line became more desirable, and HI-LIFE began to be more widely recognized as a legitimate source for inflations. We made steady gains in sales which required more people, equipment and building space. Our inflations were now being included in the supply programs of large dairy cooperatives. Our expertise was getting the attention of the milking machine manufacturers, too. Our product design assistance, tooling capabilities, excellent product quality and fast delivery (and favorable prices, too) helped us eventually become the largest inflation manufacturer in the United States. Along the way we've gained new customers and friends, and attained a level of prosperity so we could share more with our employees. We have enjoyed a stable and growing workforce over the past twenty-five years, and now comprise a company of one hundred employees. We've had our share of heartaches along the way, too, but that's a part of life which is unavoidable over such a span of time. These years have seen great things happen for our company, but it couldn't have been possible without our customers, suppliers, fellow employees and most of all, my family. People are what life is really all about, and I've been blessed to have been surrounded with talented individuals who have helped make our success possible. They say a generation is about twenty-five years long. I'm truly fortunate that my sons chose to join me in the business, and am particularly pleased that my grandson Robert has now joined us, too. My goal was to create a company that would be committed to the ideals of honesty, hard work, fairness and competence, and one that would perpetuate itself. I believe I've succeeded on all points, and fondly look back upon these last twenty-five years as just the beginning. We're certainly off to a great start! Just imagine what good things the next twenty-five years have in store for all of us! Thank you one and all for making it possible. Bill SPECIAL MENTION FOR 25th JOYCE LARSON & JUDY KUYKENDALL - For putting this party all together GUEST LIST MR & MRS ROLLAND FREITAG - Virchow Krause & Co., Certified Public Accountants & Financial Business Services BURT MILLER - ATTORNEY AT LAW MR & MRS FRANCIS ORVAL - Village President, Johnson Creek MR & MRS STEVE MELOY - President of F & M Bank of Johnson Creek (formerly Mansfield State Bank) MR & MRS TOM SCHNEIDER - Owner of Bob Schneider Printing Co. MR & MRS BERNIE MOTL - Owner and operator of Motl Plumbing Heating. Successor to his father, Barney Motl MR & MRS CHUCK SCHROEDER - Owner & Operator of SCHROEDER'S FILLING Station & auto Services MR & MRS JOHN HADY - Owners of Hady Electrical Contractors and Electrical Fixtures Store MR & MRS VERN WEGNER - MANAGER of Oliver Construction Co, Oconomowoc, Commercial Builders MR & MRS JOHN LANE - Technician at American Roller, Union Grove, WI MR & MRS LLOYD QUAMME - First Full-time employee to retire from HI-LIFE MR & MRS BILL NELSON - Denise was first office employee of HI-LIFE and was office manager when to left to pursue further education leading to a degree in accounting. She and her husband, Bill, also own a cottage industry specializing in miniature gift products with national distribution MR & MRS KENNETH C. KIRBY - Spent many years with HI-LIFE in the education of dealer and field man on machine function and sanitary practice as they relate to inflations. Currently represents a national company. MR & MRS ERVIN LANGE - Angeline was our first full-time female employee, and who has faithfully served with us for 23 years. Currently she is forelady of the finishing department. Hi-Life Rubber Inc. received a Wisconsin Governor's New Product Award in 1990. The Watertown Daily Times, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, Tuesday, March 27, 1990 Hi-Life Rubber bounces forward in Johnson Creek Hi-Life Rubber Inc. article about rubber manufacturing. Hi-Life Rubber Inc. celebrated its 25th anniversary at Watertown Country Club, Watertown, WI. Left to Right: Margaret Estelle "Muggsie" (Aderhold) (Shipman) Abbey, Dan Robert Abbey, Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) (Fuller) (Anderson) Larson, and Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson. Photos taken January 26, 1991, at the Larson residence, Sun City West, Maricopa Co., AZ. The 60th reunion of the Waupaca High School Class of 1931 was held August 10, 1991, at the Four Seasons Convention Center, Waupaca, Waupaca Co, WI. WILBUR A. LARSON COMMENTS TO QUESTIONS 1 THROUGH 3 FOR THE 60TH REUNION 1. After two weeks in Waupaca High School, having come from a one room country school with eight grades and one teacher, the change to a 'big' school was a significant hurdle for a 14 year old country kid. Latin, Algebra, English, Social Studies and Gym with different teachers in separate rooms was too overwhelming. I turned my books into Superintendent Watson after a hectic Monday and said "I Quit". He said, "Wilbur, you are making a mistake". I thought that was the end until the next morning about 7:30 AM. When I should have been on my way to school my father whipped his watch out of his bib overalls and asked me "Why aren't you on your way to school?" I said "I Quit yesterday". A half hour later I was on my bicycle back to school. When I asked Mr. Watson for my books he said "Wilbur, why are you back?" I had a simple reply, "My Dad sent me"! My dad was a very wise man. I would not be here today without his direction. 2. In January 1938 an incident happened when I was a Credit Man at a desk in General Motors Acceptance Offices at Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Branch Manager called me into his office and told me I had been given a raise of $10 per month from $105 to $115. I wanted to say the right thing. "Thank You Mr. Beauvais. I want you to know I shall always welcome CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM". No more had I gotten the words out when he said "May I rephrase your comment to CONSTRUCTIVE SUGGESTION". Many times in the past 54 years I have successfully used these two words. This positive statement has always been a winner. I know from experience. 3. I wanted to be a criminal lawyer when I entered my fourth at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. My Dad vetoed the idea. He thought being a criminal lawyer had evil overtones. In 1935 I entered the Graduate School with the thought of eventually becoming involved in commerce in So. America with Portuguese and Spanish and a well rounded study program to complement such an endeavor. Had I finished a Masters program I would have been offered an assistant professorship at the University of San Paulo, Brazil with the opportunity of a PhD. That was not to be as I left the program in March 1936 to go to work with General Motors Acceptance Corporation in Milwaukee. Money and self-sufficiency won over what could have been a Golden Opportunity in academia. From the finance business I went into the rubber manufacturing business eventually forming my own company, HI-LIFE RUBBER INC., Johnson Creek, Wisconsin. My two sons, Leigh and Reed, own and operate the business but I still am the Chairman and use what influence I consider appropriate. What is meant to be has happened. I accept my roles in a positive light and am very happy with the final result. Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson took a trip across Siberia, Russia, in June, 1992. Here is what he did on his birthday on the train. 7/4/92 Wilbur Larson 21033 Thornhill Dr. Sun City West, AZ 85020 Dear Bill, As I sort through the memories of our recent trip to Russia one of them stands out, and it is this: He stood swaying in the aisle holding on to the seats on both sides of him in the dining car on a Russian train speeding thorough Siberia. The country side that moved past the windows was green and lush with occasional groves of trees and fields of flowers in the early Russian summer. The dining car was small with a seating capacity of only 20 and the meal was meager by our American standards, but the company of our 10 person tour group was excellent. He said "May I have your attention please.” We all paused and looked up at the older man with the close cut full white beard and hair. He held up a small U.S. Flag. "This is our-flag." he said. "A lot of men have fought for it.... , and a lot of men have died for it"… , and a lot of people are living for it. I want you to know that today is Flag Day." He had trouble controlling his voice and there was a tear his eye as he continued, "How lucky I am that today is Flag Day and it is also my birthday." This brief pronouncement became the most moving and memorable part of this trip which in itself was a "once in a life time" experience for me. I won’t discuss my reaction to this with anyone in my family because I just don't feel comfortable discussing it, but I wonder if I alone was touched. As a child of eight I can remember attending the war rallys with the band playing American Patrol and thousands of people singing, America the Beautiful and God Bless America. I can remember the feeling of whole communities banded together and with passion pursuing the cause of preservation of our Liberty. I think this may have been what patriotism was. It is good know that although it's not worn on our sleeves the feeling is still there; we are patriotic. The Flag that you gave me on the train last Flag Day now has it's place in my office. Our nation has truly done so well. Thank you, Bill, for being there and serving fifty years ago; and thank you for being on the tour, and thank you for the flag. Ray Kinney August 10, 1992 Bill and Cleo Larson, about 1992. Bill Larson, Margaret Abbey, Cleo Larson, and Dan Abbey, La Rhous Supper Club, Maricopa Co., AZ, February 13, 1993. Cleo and Bill Larson, Las Vegas, Clark Co., NV, 1994. Bill and Cleo Larson, Las Vegas, Clark Co., NV, 1995 Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) (Fuller) (Anderson) Larson, Las Vegas, Clark Co., NV, about 1995. Ruth Gertrude (Bickett) Larson had named the three cat brothers Goldfinger, Blackfoot, and Bluebeard, when the cats were born in Wisconsin. Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson died October 19, 1996, at his home, Las Vegas, Clark Co., NV, at age 83. Inurnment in Sun City West, Maricopa Co., AZ. Wilbur Almo "Bill" Larson Death Certificate. The Watertown Daily Times, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, October, 1996 Wilbur Larson, founder of area firm, dies Word has been received of the death of Wilbur A. "Bill" Larson, 83, of 2020 Gray Eagle Way, Las Vegas, Nev., a former resident of Watertown, who died Oct. 19 at his home. A memorial service was held in Las Vegas. Larson was born June 14, 1913 in Waupaca, son of the late Almo and Emma Larson. On March 2, 1940 he married the former Ruth G. Bickett of Watertown. She preceded him in death in 1987. On July 11, 1987 he married the former Cleo Anderson in Sun City West, Ariz. Larson founded Hi-Life Rubber Company of Johnson Creek in 1964 and had served as its president and chairman. He also founded Milk-Rite U.S.A. in Johnson Creek. He retired from all companies in 1993. Larson was a graduate of Waupaca High School and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he received a finance degree. He was enrolled in the ROTC program at the university. He served in the South Pacific during World War II, and had the rank of major. After the war, he became a lieutenant colonel in the United States Army Reserve. He moved to Sun City in 1974 and to Las Vegas in 1993. He was a former member of the Watertown Elks Lodge, Watertown Dance Club, Watertown Country Club, Wisconsin Alumni Association, Wisconsin Rubber Group, Delta Sigma PI Fraternity and other organizations. He was an avid traveler, visiting New Zealand, Africa, Russia, Siberia, Mexico, Alaska and many European countries. Surviving are his wife; three sons, Leigh of Johnson Creek, Reed (Joyce) of Watertown and Dr. Bruce (Jean) of Asheville, N.C.; four grandchildren; and two step-daughters, Patti (Tony) of Walker, Minn., and Betty (Gary) of Las Vegas. Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) (Fuller) (Anderson) Larson Last Will and Testament, 1997. Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) (Fuller) (Anderson) Larson died July 27, 2000, at La Posada Healthcare, Green Valley, Pima Co., AZ, at age 82. Inurnment in Sunland Memorial Park, Sun City, Maricopa Co., AZ. Cleo Elizabeth (Mikkleson) (Fuller) (Anderson) Larson Death Certificate. The Green Valley News, Green Valley, Pima Co., AZ, July 28, 2000 Cleo Elizabeth Larson, 82 Although she was a very successful interior designer in the Phoenix and Sun City area, Cleo often remarked that being a mother was her greatest accomplishment and joy. Survivors include: two daughters, Patti (Tony) Doughty of Walker, Minn.; and Beth (Gary) Ray of Green Valley; grandson Charlie (Heather) Doughty and great-grandchildren Megan and Nathan of Walker, Minn.; and stepsons, Leigh Larson of Johnson Creek, Wis.; Reed (Joyce) Larson of Watertown, Wis.; and Bruce (Jean) Larson of Ashville, N.C.; sister, Charlotte (Rusty) Laird, of Des Moines, Iowa; and brother Kenneth (Darlene) Forsen of Herman, Neb. A memorial service was held at La Posada Healthcare, where she received loving care for the past year. Wilbur A. Larson, R4, #121, Waupaca, Wis. Ruth Bickett, 220 Lake Lawn Place, Madison, Wisconsin; Badger-3146 or 3147 Ruth Gertrude Bickett, 220 Lake Lawn Place, B. 3146, Madison, Wisconsin Bill Larson was enrolled in the R.O.T.C. program at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He served as an officer in the U. S. Army in WWII, eventually reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before he retired from the Army Reserves. He was authorized to wear the insignia and medals shown below, although not arranged here as correctly displayed on a uniform. O-5, Army Lieutenant Colonel Philippine Liberation Medal Ribbon - World War II Criteria: Awarded to any service member, of both Philippine and allied militaries, who participated in the liberation of the Philippine Islands between the dates of October 17, 1944 and September 2, 1945. To be awarded the medal, a service member must have served in the Philippines for at least thirty days during the eligible time period, or must have participated in one of the following actions: Participation in the initial landing operation of Leyte and adjoining islands from October 7 to October 20, 1944; or Participation in any engagement against hostile Japanese forces during the Philippine Liberation Campaign of October 17, 1944 to September 2, 1945. Personnel who are awarded the medal for participation in the above mentioned operations are authorized a service star to the Philippine Liberation Medal. Personnel who earned the medal for general service during the eligible time period are awarded the medal without device. Attachments: Bronze Star Device.This service ribbon is issued by the military along with an accompanying medal. Check the appropriate Branch of Service category for purchase of its medal counterpart. Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal - WWII Ribbon Criteria: Awarded to any member of the United States military who served in the Pacific Theater from 1941 to 1945. There were twenty one official campaigns of the Pacific Theater, denoted on with a service star. The arrowhead device is authorized for those campaigns involving amphibious assaults. Credible campaigns for the Pacific Theater are as follows: Philippine Islands 7 Dec 41 - 10 May 42; Burma, 1942 7 Dec 41 - 26 May 42; Central Pacific 7 Dec 41 - 6 Dec 43; East Indies 1 Jan 42 - 22 Jul 42; India-Burma 2 Apr 42 - 28 Jan 45; Air Offensive, Japan 17 Apr 42 - 2 Sep 45; Aleutian Islands 3 Jun 42 - 24 Aug 43; China Defensive 4 Jul 42 - 4 May 45; Papua 23 Jul 42 - 23 Jan 43; Guadalcanal 7 Aug 42 - 21 Feb 43; New Guinea 24 Jan 43 - 31 Dec 44; Northern Solomons 22 Feb 43 - 21 Nov 44; Eastern Mandates 7 Dec 43 - 14 Jun 44; Bismarck Archipelago 15 Dec 43 - 27 Nov 44; Western Pacific 17 Apr 44 - 2 Sep 45; Leyte 17 Oct 44 - 1 Jul 45; Luzon 15 Dec 44 - 4 Jul 45; Central Burma 29 Jan 45 - 15 Jul 45; Southern Philippines 27 Feb 45 - 4 Jul 45; Ryukyus 26 Mar 45 - 2 Jul 45; China Offensive 5 May 45 - 2 Sep 45. Additionally, the following Pacific Theater “blanket” campaigns qualify - but without service stars: Antisubmarine 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45; Ground Combat: 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45; Air Combat: 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45.This service ribbon is issued by the military along with an accompanying medal. Check the appropriate Branch of Service category for purchase of its medal counterpart. Bronze Star Device Criteria: A service star, also referred to as a battle star, campaign star, or engagement star, is an attachment to a military decoration which denotes participation in military campaigns or multiple bestowals of the same award. Service stars are typically issued for campaign medals, service medals, ribbon awards, and certain military badges. Service stars are different from award stars, which are issued for multiple awards of meritorious and combat decorations. The United States military issues bronze and silver and gold service stars, with a silver service star issued “in lieu” of five bronze. For instance, six campaigns, served on a campaign medal, would be annotated by one silver and one bronze service star. In some situations, service stars are only issued after the second award of a decoration. For instance, three awards of a Sea Service Ribbon would be annotated by the ribbon with two bronze service stars. The United States Army also occasionally issues award numerals, instead of service stars, to denote multiple awards of certain ribbon decorations. In addition to award numerals, the United States Army uses the same Gold award star that is worn on many Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard decorations to denote the tenth and final award of the Army Sea Duty Ribbon. Service stars issued for actions in which a United States Navy vessel participated are also placed on campaign streamers, which are affixed to the U.S. Navy flag. The regulations for this originated in 1942, which defined naval campaign areas and designated engagements. Participation in such engagements, by ships and by individuals, was then denoted by service stars. The United States Army followed a very similar practice with ground campaigns and battle engagements. A common point of confusion is to confuse bronze and silver service stars with the Silver Star and Bronze Star Medal. The main difference between the two is that the Bronze and Silver Star Medals are individual decorations while service stars are worn on awards and are not individual decorations or medals. American Defense Medal - WW II Ribbon Criteria: Army: Authorized to any military member who performed duty between September 8, 1939 and December 6, 1941. Members of the United States Army were required to perform at least one year of duty, during the above time period, while United States Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and United States Marine Corps personnel were awarded the medal for any length of service during the eligible time frame. This service ribbon is issued by the military along with an accompanying medal. Army Presidential Unit Citation Criteria: Awarded to U.S. Army units and allies for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy on or after December 7, 1941 (marking the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and the U.S. entrance into World War II). The unit must display such gallantry, determination, and esprit de corps in accomplishing its mission under extremely difficult and hazardous conditions so as to set it apart from and above other units participating in the same campaign. The degree of heroism required is the same as that which would warrant award of the Distinguished Service Cross to an individual. The Army citation was established as the Distinguished Unit Citation on February 26, 1942, and received its present name on November 3, 1966. All members of the unit may wear the decoration, whether or not they personally participated in the acts for which the unit was cited. Only those assigned to the unit at the time of the action cited may wear the decoration as a permanent award. For the Army and Air Force, the emblem itself is a solid blue ribbon enclosed in a gold frame. The Citation is carried on the unit's regimental colors in the form of a blue streamer, four feet long and 2 3/4 inches wide. This unit citation ribbon is one of the few awards issued by the military as a ribbon only. There is no accompanying medal. Combat Infantry Badge Criteria: Presented to Army infantry enlisted soldiers, infantry or special forces officers in the grade of Colonel or below, or warrant officers with an infantry or special forces MOS - who subsequent to December 6, 1941, has satisfactorily performed duty while assigned or attached as a member of an infantry, ranger or special forces unit of brigade, regimental, or smaller size during any period such unit was engaged in active ground combat. Eligibility for Special Forces personnel (less the Special Forces medical sergeant) accrues from December 20, 1989. Retroactive awards for Special Forces personnel are not authorized. A recipient must be personally present and under hostile fire while serving in an assigned infantry or special forces primary duty, in a unit actively engaged in ground combat with the enemy. The unit in question can be of any size smaller than brigade. Personnel with other than an infantry or special forces MOS are not eligible, regardless of the circumstances. Awards will not be made to general officers nor to members of headquarters companies of units larger in size than brigade. Second and third awards of the CIB are indicated by superimposing 1 and 2 stars respectively, centered at the top of the badge between the points of the oak wreath. It, and the simultaneously created Expert Infantryman Badge were created with the primary goal of recognizing the sacrifices of the infantrymen who were disproportionately likely to be killed or wounded during World War II. Officer U.S. Letters – Branch Insignia Criteria: U.S. Army branch insignia letters are worn in concert with branch insignia badges. U.S. Army branch insignia badges represent each individual service member’s specific field of service. Each soldier – both enlisted personnel and officers – wear their branch insignia badge on his or her formal uniform (Class A or Army dress blues) denoting their particular skill set. Army branch insignia badges are separate from Army qualification badges, in that, qualification badges require completion of a training course or school, whereas branch insignia badges are issued to a service member upon assignment to a particular area of the Army. Enlisted soldiers wear the branch insignia on the left coat lapel (opposite the “U.S.” insignia disk). Officers wear their branch insignia on the lower half of both lapels beneath the “U.S.” insignia. Army personnel began wearing branch insignia just prior to the Civil War in the 1850s. Officer Infantry – Branch Insignia Criteria: U.S. Army branch insignia badges represent each individual service member’s specific field of service. Each soldier – both enlisted personnel and officers – wear their branch insignia badge on his or her formal uniform (Class A or Army dress blues) denoting their particular skill set. Army branch insignia badges are separate from Army qualification badges, in that, qualification badges require completion of a training course or school, whereas branch insignia badges are issued to a service member upon assignment to a particular area of the Army. Enlisted soldiers wear the branch insignia on the left coat lapel (opposite the “U.S.” insignia disk). Officers wear their branch insignia on the lower half of both lapels beneath the “U.S.” insignia. Army personnel began wearing branch insignia just prior to the Civil War in the 1850s. Wilbur A. Larson Historical Residential Addresses 6/14/1913 – 6/20/1935; RFD #4, Farmington Twp., Waupaca Co., WI. Photo 1907. Photos taken by Reed Larson in 2016. 6/20/1935 – 5/1/1936; various addresses, Milwaukee, Milwaukee Co., WI. 5/1/1936 – 8/1937; East Ayer St., Ironwood, Gogebic Co., MI. 1/1/1938 – 10/1/1940; 404 E. Cady St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photo 2019. 10/1/1940 – 10/1/1941; 3002 N. 56th St., Milwaukee, Milwaukee Co., WI. Photo ca. 2016. 10/1/1941 – 11/1943; 700 Clyman St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photos ca. 1940, ca. 1942, 2013, and 2013. 12/1943 – 1945; 206 N. Church St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh attended Old Lincoln Kindergarten School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, the year the school burned down. Photo 2019. 11/1945 – 1949; 421 E. Water St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh attended Old Webster Elementary School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photo ca. 2017. 9/26/1949 – 3/1950; 111-1/2 W. Main St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh and Reed attended Lincoln Elementary School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photo March 13, 1951 (left), and 2019 right). 3/1950; 1721 W. Lake St., Minneapolis, Hennepin Co., MN. On 6/1951, Leigh and Reed attended Calhoun Elementary School, Minneapolis, Hennepin Co., MN. Photos taken by Reed Larson in 2016. 1951 - 1952; 120 Malcolm Ave. S.E., Minneapolis, Hennepin Co., MN. Leigh and Reed attended Sidney Pratt Elementary School. Last day of school was 3/12/1952. The family moved back to Watertown on 3/13/1952. Photo taken by Reed Larson in 2016. 1952; N. Monroe Street, Watertown, Dodge Co., WI. Leigh and Reed attended Lincoln Elementary School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Left to Right: 317, 315, and 313. 1952 - 1955; 311 S. Washington St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh and Reed attended Watertown Jr. High School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Bruce attended Lincoln Elementary School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photo ca. 2016. 1957 - 1983; 406 S. Washington St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh and Reed attended Watertown Sr. High School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Bruce attended Lincoln Elementary School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, and Watertown Jr. and Sr. High Schools, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photos ca. 1960. 1969 - 1986; 10658 Tropicana Circle, Sun City, Maricopa Co., AZ. Photo ca. 2016. 1986 - 1993; 10220 Brookside Dr., Sun City West, Maricopa Co., AZ. Photos ca. 1991. 1990 - 1992; 559 Forest Highlands, Flagstaff, Coconino Co., AZ. Photos ca. 1991. 1993 - 1994; 8705 Robinson Ridge Dr., Las Vegas, Clark Co., NV. Photos ca. 2016. 1/1/1995 – 10/19/1996; 2020 Gray Eagle Way, Las Vegas, Clark Co., NV. Photos ca. 2016.
Wilbur A. Larson, R4, #121, Waupaca, Wis. Ruth Bickett, 220 Lake Lawn Place, Madison, Wisconsin; Badger-3146 or 3147 Ruth Gertrude Bickett, 220 Lake Lawn Place, B. 3146, Madison, Wisconsin Bill Larson was enrolled in the R.O.T.C. program at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He served as an officer in the U. S. Army in WWII, eventually reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before he retired from the Army Reserves. He was authorized to wear the insignia and medals shown below, although not arranged here as correctly displayed on a uniform. O-5, Army Lieutenant Colonel Philippine Liberation Medal Ribbon - World War II Criteria: Awarded to any service member, of both Philippine and allied militaries, who participated in the liberation of the Philippine Islands between the dates of October 17, 1944 and September 2, 1945. To be awarded the medal, a service member must have served in the Philippines for at least thirty days during the eligible time period, or must have participated in one of the following actions: Participation in the initial landing operation of Leyte and adjoining islands from October 7 to October 20, 1944; or Participation in any engagement against hostile Japanese forces during the Philippine Liberation Campaign of October 17, 1944 to September 2, 1945. Personnel who are awarded the medal for participation in the above mentioned operations are authorized a service star to the Philippine Liberation Medal. Personnel who earned the medal for general service during the eligible time period are awarded the medal without device. Attachments: Bronze Star Device.This service ribbon is issued by the military along with an accompanying medal. Check the appropriate Branch of Service category for purchase of its medal counterpart. Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal - WWII Ribbon Criteria: Awarded to any member of the United States military who served in the Pacific Theater from 1941 to 1945. There were twenty one official campaigns of the Pacific Theater, denoted on with a service star. The arrowhead device is authorized for those campaigns involving amphibious assaults. Credible campaigns for the Pacific Theater are as follows: Philippine Islands 7 Dec 41 - 10 May 42; Burma, 1942 7 Dec 41 - 26 May 42; Central Pacific 7 Dec 41 - 6 Dec 43; East Indies 1 Jan 42 - 22 Jul 42; India-Burma 2 Apr 42 - 28 Jan 45; Air Offensive, Japan 17 Apr 42 - 2 Sep 45; Aleutian Islands 3 Jun 42 - 24 Aug 43; China Defensive 4 Jul 42 - 4 May 45; Papua 23 Jul 42 - 23 Jan 43; Guadalcanal 7 Aug 42 - 21 Feb 43; New Guinea 24 Jan 43 - 31 Dec 44; Northern Solomons 22 Feb 43 - 21 Nov 44; Eastern Mandates 7 Dec 43 - 14 Jun 44; Bismarck Archipelago 15 Dec 43 - 27 Nov 44; Western Pacific 17 Apr 44 - 2 Sep 45; Leyte 17 Oct 44 - 1 Jul 45; Luzon 15 Dec 44 - 4 Jul 45; Central Burma 29 Jan 45 - 15 Jul 45; Southern Philippines 27 Feb 45 - 4 Jul 45; Ryukyus 26 Mar 45 - 2 Jul 45; China Offensive 5 May 45 - 2 Sep 45. Additionally, the following Pacific Theater “blanket” campaigns qualify - but without service stars: Antisubmarine 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45; Ground Combat: 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45; Air Combat: 7 Dec 41 - 2 Sep 45.This service ribbon is issued by the military along with an accompanying medal. Check the appropriate Branch of Service category for purchase of its medal counterpart. Bronze Star Device Criteria: A service star, also referred to as a battle star, campaign star, or engagement star, is an attachment to a military decoration which denotes participation in military campaigns or multiple bestowals of the same award. Service stars are typically issued for campaign medals, service medals, ribbon awards, and certain military badges. Service stars are different from award stars, which are issued for multiple awards of meritorious and combat decorations. The United States military issues bronze and silver and gold service stars, with a silver service star issued “in lieu” of five bronze. For instance, six campaigns, served on a campaign medal, would be annotated by one silver and one bronze service star. In some situations, service stars are only issued after the second award of a decoration. For instance, three awards of a Sea Service Ribbon would be annotated by the ribbon with two bronze service stars. The United States Army also occasionally issues award numerals, instead of service stars, to denote multiple awards of certain ribbon decorations. In addition to award numerals, the United States Army uses the same Gold award star that is worn on many Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard decorations to denote the tenth and final award of the Army Sea Duty Ribbon. Service stars issued for actions in which a United States Navy vessel participated are also placed on campaign streamers, which are affixed to the U.S. Navy flag. The regulations for this originated in 1942, which defined naval campaign areas and designated engagements. Participation in such engagements, by ships and by individuals, was then denoted by service stars. The United States Army followed a very similar practice with ground campaigns and battle engagements. A common point of confusion is to confuse bronze and silver service stars with the Silver Star and Bronze Star Medal. The main difference between the two is that the Bronze and Silver Star Medals are individual decorations while service stars are worn on awards and are not individual decorations or medals. American Defense Medal - WW II Ribbon Criteria: Army: Authorized to any military member who performed duty between September 8, 1939 and December 6, 1941. Members of the United States Army were required to perform at least one year of duty, during the above time period, while United States Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and United States Marine Corps personnel were awarded the medal for any length of service during the eligible time frame. This service ribbon is issued by the military along with an accompanying medal. Army Presidential Unit Citation Criteria: Awarded to U.S. Army units and allies for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy on or after December 7, 1941 (marking the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and the U.S. entrance into World War II). The unit must display such gallantry, determination, and esprit de corps in accomplishing its mission under extremely difficult and hazardous conditions so as to set it apart from and above other units participating in the same campaign. The degree of heroism required is the same as that which would warrant award of the Distinguished Service Cross to an individual. The Army citation was established as the Distinguished Unit Citation on February 26, 1942, and received its present name on November 3, 1966. All members of the unit may wear the decoration, whether or not they personally participated in the acts for which the unit was cited. Only those assigned to the unit at the time of the action cited may wear the decoration as a permanent award. For the Army and Air Force, the emblem itself is a solid blue ribbon enclosed in a gold frame. The Citation is carried on the unit's regimental colors in the form of a blue streamer, four feet long and 2 3/4 inches wide. This unit citation ribbon is one of the few awards issued by the military as a ribbon only. There is no accompanying medal. Combat Infantry Badge Criteria: Presented to Army infantry enlisted soldiers, infantry or special forces officers in the grade of Colonel or below, or warrant officers with an infantry or special forces MOS - who subsequent to December 6, 1941, has satisfactorily performed duty while assigned or attached as a member of an infantry, ranger or special forces unit of brigade, regimental, or smaller size during any period such unit was engaged in active ground combat. Eligibility for Special Forces personnel (less the Special Forces medical sergeant) accrues from December 20, 1989. Retroactive awards for Special Forces personnel are not authorized. A recipient must be personally present and under hostile fire while serving in an assigned infantry or special forces primary duty, in a unit actively engaged in ground combat with the enemy. The unit in question can be of any size smaller than brigade. Personnel with other than an infantry or special forces MOS are not eligible, regardless of the circumstances. Awards will not be made to general officers nor to members of headquarters companies of units larger in size than brigade. Second and third awards of the CIB are indicated by superimposing 1 and 2 stars respectively, centered at the top of the badge between the points of the oak wreath. It, and the simultaneously created Expert Infantryman Badge were created with the primary goal of recognizing the sacrifices of the infantrymen who were disproportionately likely to be killed or wounded during World War II. Officer U.S. Letters – Branch Insignia Criteria: U.S. Army branch insignia letters are worn in concert with branch insignia badges. U.S. Army branch insignia badges represent each individual service member’s specific field of service. Each soldier – both enlisted personnel and officers – wear their branch insignia badge on his or her formal uniform (Class A or Army dress blues) denoting their particular skill set. Army branch insignia badges are separate from Army qualification badges, in that, qualification badges require completion of a training course or school, whereas branch insignia badges are issued to a service member upon assignment to a particular area of the Army. Enlisted soldiers wear the branch insignia on the left coat lapel (opposite the “U.S.” insignia disk). Officers wear their branch insignia on the lower half of both lapels beneath the “U.S.” insignia. Army personnel began wearing branch insignia just prior to the Civil War in the 1850s. Officer Infantry – Branch Insignia Criteria: U.S. Army branch insignia badges represent each individual service member’s specific field of service. Each soldier – both enlisted personnel and officers – wear their branch insignia badge on his or her formal uniform (Class A or Army dress blues) denoting their particular skill set. Army branch insignia badges are separate from Army qualification badges, in that, qualification badges require completion of a training course or school, whereas branch insignia badges are issued to a service member upon assignment to a particular area of the Army. Enlisted soldiers wear the branch insignia on the left coat lapel (opposite the “U.S.” insignia disk). Officers wear their branch insignia on the lower half of both lapels beneath the “U.S.” insignia. Army personnel began wearing branch insignia just prior to the Civil War in the 1850s. Wilbur A. Larson Historical Residential Addresses 6/14/1913 – 6/20/1935; RFD #4, Farmington Twp., Waupaca Co., WI. Photo 1907. Photos taken by Reed Larson in 2016. 6/20/1935 – 5/1/1936; various addresses, Milwaukee, Milwaukee Co., WI. 5/1/1936 – 8/1937; East Ayer St., Ironwood, Gogebic Co., MI. 1/1/1938 – 10/1/1940; 404 E. Cady St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photo 2019. 10/1/1940 – 10/1/1941; 3002 N. 56th St., Milwaukee, Milwaukee Co., WI. Photo ca. 2016. 10/1/1941 – 11/1943; 700 Clyman St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photos ca. 1940, ca. 1942, 2013, and 2013. 12/1943 – 1945; 206 N. Church St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh attended Old Lincoln Kindergarten School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, the year the school burned down. Photo 2019. 11/1945 – 1949; 421 E. Water St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh attended Old Webster Elementary School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photo ca. 2017. 9/26/1949 – 3/1950; 111-1/2 W. Main St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh and Reed attended Lincoln Elementary School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photo March 13, 1951 (left), and 2019 right). 3/1950; 1721 W. Lake St., Minneapolis, Hennepin Co., MN. On 6/1951, Leigh and Reed attended Calhoun Elementary School, Minneapolis, Hennepin Co., MN. Photos taken by Reed Larson in 2016. 1951 - 1952; 120 Malcolm Ave. S.E., Minneapolis, Hennepin Co., MN. Leigh and Reed attended Sidney Pratt Elementary School. Last day of school was 3/12/1952. The family moved back to Watertown on 3/13/1952. Photo taken by Reed Larson in 2016. 1952; N. Monroe Street, Watertown, Dodge Co., WI. Leigh and Reed attended Lincoln Elementary School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Left to Right: 317, 315, and 313. 1952 - 1955; 311 S. Washington St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh and Reed attended Watertown Jr. High School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Bruce attended Lincoln Elementary School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photo ca. 2016. 1957 - 1983; 406 S. Washington St., Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Leigh and Reed attended Watertown Sr. High School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Bruce attended Lincoln Elementary School, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI, and Watertown Jr. and Sr. High Schools, Watertown, Jefferson Co., WI. Photos ca. 1960. 1969 - 1986; 10658 Tropicana Circle, Sun City, Maricopa Co., AZ. Photo ca. 2016. 1986 - 1993; 10220 Brookside Dr., Sun City West, Maricopa Co., AZ. Photos ca. 1991. 1990 - 1992; 559 Forest Highlands, Flagstaff, Coconino Co., AZ. Photos ca. 1991. 1993 - 1994; 8705 Robinson Ridge Dr., Las Vegas, Clark Co., NV. Photos ca. 2016. 1/1/1995 – 10/19/1996; 2020 Gray Eagle Way, Las Vegas, Clark Co., NV. Photos ca. 2016.