Russell William Volckmann | |
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![]() An image of then Col. Volckmann | |
Born | Clinton, Iowa | October 23, 1911
Died | June 30, 1982 Iowa City, Iowa | (aged 70)
Allegiance | ![]() |
Service/ | ![]() |
Years of service | 1934–1957 |
Rank | Brigadier General |
Battles/wars | World War II
Korean War Cold War |
Awards | Distinguished Service Cross (2) Army Distinguished Service Medal Silver Star Legion of Merit Bronze Star (2) Army Commendation Medal[1] |
Russell William Volckmann (October 23, 1911 – June 30, 1982) was a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, a U.S. Army infantry officer and a leader of the Philippine Commonwealth military and guerrilla resistance to the Japanese conquest of the Philippines during World War II.[2] After the war, he remained in the U.S. Army and helped create the U.S. Army Special Forces. Volckmann, together with Colonels Aaron Bank and Wendell Fertig are considered the founders of the U.S. Army Special Forces (the "Green Berets"). He eventually retired as a brigadier general.