Erling Hegg
Era: World War II
Military Branch: Marines
Erling Hegg served in World War II in the Pacific Theater in the U.S. Marine Corps.
He was assigned to an Essex class aircraft carrier, Marine Detachment. He was inducted on June 30, 1944 and was discharged on March 1, 1946. His rank was Private First Class. He was decorated with the Good Conduct Medal.
Mr. Hegg recalls, “During World War II, I was the last of four brothers and three sisters to be at home to help out on the farm. Because of this, I had what was called a 2-C deferment. Two of my brothers served all through the war, one in the Air Force and one in the Army.
“Although I had a deferment, I wanted to enlist. My dad understood, so I cancelled my deferment and enlisted in the Marines. I have never regretted my decision. I did very little compared to many who served so much longer and in far more dangerous missions, but I am proud to have been able to serve time in the Marines.
“Both of my brothers served the full time of the war—and one received the Medal of Honor! They are both gone now, and I am proud of them, and proud to have been able to serve my own time in service for our country.”
Mr. Hegg was born on August 6, 192_, in Orleans, Minnesota, the son of Andrew and Anna Hegg.
Source: Veterans’ Memorial Hall Veteran History Form
