Brothers in Arms: Local veterans help others in a variety of ways

by Lissa Blake

Sometimes, if you want something done to the level that you feel is right, you have to just do it yourself.
That is the motivation that drives a couple of Allamakee County veterans to lend their time, talent and finances toward going the extra mile to make sure area veterans receive what they need or deserve. It’s not a government or social program, according to Vietnam veteran Jerry Halverson of Waukon. It’s just a couple of guys who want to give back.
“We call ourselves the Allamakee County Good Ol’ Boys,” said Halverson.
Halverson, who served as a U.S. Marine from 1968-1971, works closely with 22-year U.S. Navy veteran Robert Kolsrud of Waukon and his wife, Eunice (Thorstenson).
Although Robert is 84 and Eunice is 80, they’re not about to let that stand in their way of doing what they feel needs to be done.
“Robert is an Eveready battery,” said Halverson of Kolsrud, 20 years his senior.

HOW THEY HELP
The trio of good Samaritans is always looking for ways to tell veterans how much they are appreciated. From delivering home-cooked meals during the holidays, to issuing certificates of appreciation to veterans living in nursing homes, the group does what it can to make sure the county’s vets are not forgotten.
“I spent two and a half years in a hospital and I know the holidays are usually the loneliest time. We try to make a real effort to go visit them during that time,” said Halverson.
Veterans might receive something as simple as some personal hygiene items or a deck of cards.
Four years ago, the Kolsruds and Halverson put together the “Allamakee County Patriot Awards” and made an effort to honor those veterans who had served after 9-11.
“About a year later, we honored about 350 Korean veterans with engraved name plaques,” said Halverson.
Each time the Good Ol’ Boys give out plaques, they do so at an expense of about $2,500. A tab they are happy to pay.
“I used to be involved in local politics… I was the chair of the local Republican party… I decided this might be another way I could give back,” said Halverson.

IF NOT FOR THEM
Bob Hilleshiem of Waukon, a U.S. Navy veteran who served in Vietnam and was disabled in a farm accident after his return, rents his country home from the Kolsruds’ son, Clark. Now an amputee confined to a wheelchair, Hilleshiem said, “If I didn’t have the Kolsruds, I would probably be in a nursing home.”
Hilleshiem said of the past 15 years, he has spent half of his time in the hospital. He admits that he’s not much of a cook, and said, without fail, the Kolsruds show up with a wonderful meal each year around the holidays.
“Eunice also mows my lawn, and they shovel my snow,” said Hilleshiem.
In addition, they built a wheelchair ramp and recently poured a cement pad near it so Hilleshiem could have better access for parking his van.
“They have done nothing but good things for me, and they will not accept a nickel. This all comes out of their own pocket,” said Hilleshiem.

A BIG SURPRISE
During their interview for this story in The Standard, the Kolsruds and Halverson presented Hilleshiem with a big surprise. Several years ago, Hilleshiem lost everything he owned in a house fire while he was in the hospital having his leg amputated.
Unbeknownst to Hilleshiem, his veteran friends recently attended a ceremony on his behalf and were able to procure Hilleshiem’s replacement medals for his service to his country in the U.S. Navy. Hilleshiem said although he had known about the event, at the time he had no access to a vehicle that could transport his wheelchair to the ceremony.
“We’re not even family, but we’re Brothers in Arms,” said Hilleshiem of the efforts of Halverson and the Kolsruds.

ALWAYS HELPING
Halverson added his group is happy to help wherever it may be needed. “There have been a few times over the years when there are veterans who have arrived in Waukon and had car trouble. They may have had money to pay for the car, but not to stay while it was worked on. We’ve taken them to Stoney Creek Inn and put them up for the night,” he said.
In addition, Kolsrud serves as the commander of VFW Post No. 8213 in De Soto, WI and Halverson is the quartermaster.
They have constructed a veterans trailer, which they took to 11 parades this year, distributing candy and playing the National Anthem and the songs for each branch of military service.

WHAT’S NEXT?
Kolsrud said they are always looking for suggestions for ways they can help out area veterans. No request is too big or too small. In addition, they would like to enlist the help of young veterans, who might be able to continue the work they are doing.
“I’m pretty near 85,” said Kolsrud.
To volunteer or nominate a local veteran for recognition or assistance, area residents are invited to call the Kolsruds at 563-535-7262.