1st Lieut. Arnold L. Bjorklund of the 36th Infantry Division, 36th Infantry Division, earned the Medal of Honor by single-handedly knocking out two machine gun nests and a mortar position. He was leading his platoon on the attack on Hill 424 near Alta Villa, Italy when they were pinned down by machine gun fire. Armed with his carbine and three grenades, Bjorklund worked his way toward the gun position, repeatedly exposing himself to fire. Once in range of the position he knocked it out with a grenade. He then did the same with a second position 20 yards away. His platoon was then able to advance 150 yards to the crest of the hill. Again, they were pinned down. This time by a heavy mortar position. Again, Bjorklund repeatedly exposed himself to danger while working his way within range of the mortar. When he got within 10 yards, he threw his last grenade, killing two Germans and forcing the remaining three to flee.

Bjorklund was born in Clinton, Washington, moving to Seattle at age 3. After graduating from Ballard High School, he joined an uncle prospecting for gold in Alaska. 

On the same day, one ridge over, Tech. Sgt. Charles Kelly of the 36th division, also earned a medal of honor. 
Bjorklund is interred at Willamette National Cemetery, Oregon.

News article stating Bjorklund will be awarded Medal of Honor.

Page five of a War Department press release detailing Bjorklund's actions

Page two of a War Department press release detailing Bjorklund's actions

Page four of a War Department press release detailing Bjorklund's actions

Page one of a War Department press release detailing Bjorklund's actions

Page t of a War Department press release detailing Bjorklund's actionshree

ARNOLD L BJORKLUND

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