Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
WAGNER, Laverne W.
WAGNER, Laverne W. (Galena, IL, Jan. 4, 1919 in Galena, Illinois-- Indianapolis, IN, Apr. 16, 2003). Wagner earned 7 Major “D’s” in three sports at DUBUQUE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL, while also becoming a member of the National Honor Society and playing in the band. He was captain of football, basketball, and track teams his senior year. In 1936, he received All-State Honorable Mention in football. Wagner’s contribution to Senior Ram football lore was his 97-yard interception return for a touchdown against East Waterloo. He graduated from Senior in 1937. (1)
He joined the Marine Corps Reserve in 1941. Upon graduation from Marquette University in June 1941, he went onto Quantico for the 3rd Officers Candidate class and was commissioned on November 1, 1941. After a tour of duty at the Recruit Depot in San Diego, he joined the 23rd Marines at Tent Camp, New River, North Carolina, and after making captain, he assumed command of K company, 23rd Marines. He commanded K company during the landing assaults om Roi-Namur, Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima. He was awarded the Bronze Star for Saipan and a Silver Star for Iwo Jima. After WORLD WAR II he accepted a regular commission.
In addition he served in Korea, commanding the 3rd Battalion 1st Marines and in 1961-63 as Fleet Marine Officer, Seventh Fleet, during the VIETNAM WAR. Colonel Wagner retired from the United States Marine Corps in February 1968.
Following retirement from the Marine Corps he assumed the position of Business Manager and Comptroller at Marian College in Indianapolis; he served in that position from 1968 to 1983. (2)
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Source:
1. Dubuque Senior High School Sports Hall of Fame (2000). Online: http://senior.dbqschools.org/athletics/sports-hall-of-fame/sports-hall-of-fame-1996/
2. "Laverne William Wagner," Online: http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/lwwagner.htm
