Sherman Ruud was born on April 30, 1924, in Maddock, North Dakota. He enlisted in the U.S. Army at Grand Forks, North Dakota, on April 1, 1941, and after completing basic training and artillery school, he served with the field artillery in the United States, and then deployed to Europe, where he served in France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany, including the Battle of the Bulge. After returning to the United States, Sgt Ruud was honorably discharged from the Army on October 17, 1945, at Fort Lewis, Washington. Sherman Ruud died on February 28, 1992, and was buried at Washington Memorial Park in SeaTac, Washington.

American Soldier

They proudly wear the uniform
And go where duty calls.
Although they grieve, yet they fight on
Each time a good friend falls.
No enemy will overcome
America by force,
Old Glory flies because of troops
Who bravely stay the course.
They share a bond with all who've fought,
In air, on sea and shore.
They'll always keep our country strong-
It is their noble chore.