The journey of George E. Wahlen epitomizes resilience and dedication through hardship and valor.
Born into a struggling family during the Great Depression, Wahlen’s early years were marked by financial challenges after the infamous stock market crash of 1929.
Despite those difficulties, the Wahlen family managed to secure a roof over their heads and instilled in young George a work ethic that would define him.
Selling nightcrawlers to anglers was one of his early entrepreneurial efforts, contributing to the family income.
By 1936, they had managed to save enough for a down payment on a house just outside Ogden, Utah.
Little did George know that his life was about to change drastically when World War II erupted.
As a high school student, Wahlen faced the realities of the war that began in 1939.
In November 1941, eager to support the country, he left school for a trade school focused on aircraft mechanics, a move his father approved of in hopes it would keep him from the battlefield.
However, his aspirations were challenged when the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, shifted the nation’s focus and urgency regarding enlistment.
Despite the promise of enlistment by an Army recruiter, Wahlen’s father refused to sign the necessary papers, leading George to consider alternative ways to contribute.
After graduating from the mechanic’s school in 1942, he found work at Hill Field, now Hill Air Force Base, assessing aircraft for airworthiness.
There, he quickly climbed the ranks to the role of crew chief, overseeing a team of mechanics.
The call to serve became inescapable for Wahlen in June 1943 when he signed up for the draft.
However, instead of fulfilling his desire to work as a mechanic, he was enlisted as a corpsman in the U.S. Navy.
His medical training took him to the Naval Hospital in San Diego, where he focused on less desirable tasks such as cleaning floors and emptying bedpans.
Wahlen, determined to improve his situation, sought a transfer to the U.S. Marine Corps, believing it would provide him more fulfilling duties.
His determination led him to training at Camp Pendleton, California in late 1944.
After rigorous preparation, Wahlen deployed to Iwo Jima in December 1944, a pivotal battlefield in the Pacific theater.
On his first night on the island, amid enemy fire, he dug into the volcanic sand to create a defensive position, testing his resolve and instincts as a corpsman.
It wasn’t long before the horrors of war unfolded before him; he witnessed the gruesome toll the battle took on both Marines and enemy fighters.
Wahlen’s medical expertise was pushed to the limits as he treated head wounds, severe injuries, and severe psychological trauma while also trying to maintain his mental fortitude.
As the brutal days wore on, Wahlen himself became wounded, enduring shrapnel to the face and serious injuries to his legs while continuing to aid his fellow soldiers.
His training as a corpsman was put to the ultimate test as he assisted Marines through their most critical moments, often risking his life to deliver supplies or attend to injured men.
Each day found him confronting tragedy, with the weight of loss profoundly affecting him.
Despite sustaining injuries himself, Wahlen’s commitment to those around him never faltered—he was credited with saving numerous lives.
After days on the battlefield, Wahlen’s leg was severely injured and he was evacuated for medical care.
Doctors in Pearl Harbor attempted treatment, but ultimately he had to return to Camp Pendleton for multiple surgeries.
His service on Iwo Jima left him with both physical wounds and emotional scars, yet he returned home to Utah shortly after the end of the war.
The war concluded with Japan’s surrender in August 1945, following the devastating atomic bombings.
In recognition of his bravery at Iwo Jima, Wahlen was awarded the Navy Cross and Gold Star in September 1945, but his achievements did not stop there.
He was summoned to Washington, D.C., where he was surprised to learn he was to be awarded the Medal of Honor.
On October 5, 1945, he stood among other heroes, receiving the nation’s highest military honor from President Harry S. Truman—a moment that would etch his legacy in the annals of history.
George Wahlen became a celebrated figure in Utah, highlighting the valor and sacrifice of veterans.
Following the war, Wahlen married Melba Holley in 1946.
Their union brought joy to his life, a stabilizing force that helped alleviate the nightmares he had experienced post-combat.
As a dedicated family man, Wahlen prioritized education and advancement, attending Weber State University and later securing a career with the Army.
During his time in military service, he served in various roles, including personnel officer and received multiple recognitions, including a Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam.
His transition back to civilian life post-military service saw him focus on career transitions, ultimately leading him to a fulfilling role with the Veterans Affairs.
With his Medal of Honor status, Wahlen leveraged his influence to advocate for veterans across Utah.
His initiatives included spearheading the creation of state veterans’ cemeteries and advocating for nursing homes for veterans, recognizing a dire need for such facilities.
The George E. Wahlen Ogden Veterans Home opened in 1998, a testament to his tireless advocacy efforts to care for veterans.
Wahlen’s family was not fully aware of his harrowing experiences during World War II until years later, showcasing the often-unspoken burdens carried by veterans.
It wasn’t until the 50th anniversary of the battle of Iwo Jima that his heroism and sacrifices came to light to his family, providing them a clearer understanding of his journey.
Wahlen’s legacy is not just one of battle valor, but also of continuous service to his community and fellow veterans.
With a vision for the well-being of Utah veterans, he has become a beacon of hope and leadership that signifies dedication and resilience.
The efforts of George E. Wahlen extended far beyond his time in uniform, continuously impacting the lives of those around him through patriotism and charismatic leadership.
His life story reminds us of the costs of freedom and the unwavering spirit of those who serve in defense of our nation.
image source from：va
