Neal Haferman was born to Mr. and Mrs. William Haferman on March 30, 1930 in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. U.S. Army Private First Class Neal Haferman was reported missing and most likely killed on July 29th 1950 at age 20 while fighting in South Korea. Neal was a member of the 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division.

Neal Haferman attended West Side Lutheran School before attending Lincoln high School. He graduated from Lincoln High School with the class of 1948. Neal played football and baseball for the Wisconsin Rapids team, and was also a member of the American Legion baseball squad. Neal was employed by the Water and Light Department before enlisting in the army. Nicknamed “Red” for his red hair, Neal enjoyed fishing and hunting with his brothers, Roy, Glenn, and William Jr.

Neal Haferman was awarded several honors for his work as a soldier. He received the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Korean Service Medal, the United Nations service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal.

Neal enlisted in the army in January of 1949 at age 18 with one of his friends. He enlisted for three years, and only to get his service time in so that he could continue with his life. He was assigned to Camp Breckinridge, Kentucky for training. Neal was sent to Japan in May of 1950, and then was later sent to fight in Korea when the Korean War broke out. Neal was reported missing in one of the unit’s earliest combat missions.

Neal Haferman's death was confirmed 21 months later, in August of 1954. He died at only 20 years old. His parents were notified of his death in a message from the US Department of Defense delivered by a soldier at their home. Neal’s body was later sent to his parents under military escort and was taken to the Krohn and Berard Funeral Home. Neal’s funeral was held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and he was buried in Forest Hill Cemetery.

Neal may have died young, but his name will live on forever. His first born son was named Neal after him. His brother, William gave the middle name of “Neal” to his own son in memory of his older brother.

Written by:

Ellie Haferman

East Junior High School