August Larson

August Larson (July 2, 1904 – November 4, 1981) was a highly decorated officer of the United States Marine Corps with the rank of major general, who is most noted for his service as commanding officer of 22nd Marine Regiment during the Battle of Okinawa and later as director of personnel at Headquarters Marine Corps.

Early career

August Larson was born on July 2, 1904, in Sherburn, Minnesota, and attended high school there. Following graduation in 1922, he enrolled at the University of Minnesota, where he studied for three years. Larson left college and enlisted in the Marine Corps on January 13, 1928. He served three years as enlisted rank and reached the rank of NCO. Larson was attached to the NCO meritorious program and also received the Good Conduct Medal for his "exemplary behavior and efficiency".

Larson landed on Okinawa at the beginning of April 1945 and distinguished himself again in coordinating the supply of material and ammunition to the front line units. He received the Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V" for his efforts.

Larson returned to the U. S. in August 1946 and received the Chinese Special Breast Order of Yun Hui for his service during the repatriation of Japanese. He did not stay long without assignment. His old superior, Major General Shepherd, served as commanding officer of Troop Training Unit, Amphibious Training Command, U.S. Atlantic Fleet at Little Creek, Virginia, and appointed Larson Assistant Chief of Staff for Supply.

In March 1949 he attended the Logistics course at Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and then a course at the Naval War College at Newport, Rhode Island.

During July 1955, Larson was transferred to the California and appointed deputy commander of Camp Pendleton under Major General George F. Good. In this capacity he was co-responsible for the training of new recruits and finally received promotion to the rank of brigadier general on July 1, 1956.

Larson was ordered to Okinawa in July 1957 and appointed assistant division commander, 3rd Marine Division under Major General Francis M. McAlister. He took part in defense duties in the Far East until June 1958.