MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) -A Vietnam veteran was formally inducted into the “Hall of Heroes” at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital Friday morning.
United States Marine Corps Veteran Lance Cpl. Terry Christensen received the honor in 2024 before he passed away in the hospital’s ICU.
“They asked me when they had to do an impromptu induction when he was in the ICU, if I had anything to say and I said no, it’s Terry’s Day,” his wife Catherine said.
United States Marine Corps veteran Terry Christensen (left) and his wife, Cathy Christensen, with his Madison VA Hall of Heroes plaque following his induction November 1, 2024. Christensen received a Bronze Star with V device for actions while serving in Vietnam, running into a burning helicopter three times, even after suffering severe burns on his first trip August 7, 1970.(William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital)
The hospital recognizes courageous veterans who are eligible for care at the Madison VA hospital and clinics. Staff held a private induction for Lance Cpl. Terry Christensen with more than 40 people in attendance on November 1, 2024.
“I really felt like I was doing my job, not a hero, but I am glad you do recognize Marines for what they do,” Veteran Lance Cpl. Christensen said during his ceremony.
Lance Cpl. Christensen died nine hours after his induction.
Lance Cpl. Christensen receives formal induction(WMTV)
Almost a year later, tears filled the hospital’s auditorium as they honored Lance Cpl. Christensen for one last time in Madison on Friday. Catherine decided to have his official ceremony on August 8th because it’s when the veteran meets with his friends every year.
“It’s such an honor. It’s such an honor,” Catherine said.
The marine was drafted at 19 and fought in the Vietnam War. During his time in the service, he was awarded a Bronze Star with V device and a Purple Heart with a Gold Star device.
United States Marine Corps veteran Terry Christensen during his military service. Christensen received a Bronze Star with V device for actions while serving in Vietnam, running into a burning helicopter three times, even after suffering severe burns on his first trip August 7, 1970.(Christensen family)
“If it wasn’t for the camaraderie and the brotherhood, he may never have come home from Vietnam. They said that’s what it’s all about,” Catherine said.
The bonds Lance Cpl. Christensen formed in 1970 are unbreakable.
“Terry and I have a unique connection,” Charles Julson, a friend of Lance Cpl. Christensen said. “We were both shot at the same time. He was hitting the shoulder. I was hit in the back.”
Loved ones will miss his stories, joy and selflessness. Catherine said her husband served for one year, five months and six days.
The hospital has inducted more than 20 veterans to their “Hall of Heroes.”
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