Lawrence Eugene Speldrich (Photos courtesy of Staff Sgt. Michaela C.P. Granger / ND National Guard Public Affairs Office)
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In a world where heroism is often defined by battles fought on foreign soil, Lawrence Eugene Speldrich's quiet act of courage-performed in the murky waters of a military training exercise-remains largely unrecognized. Despite saving a fellow soldier's life at great personal cost, Speldrich, a former E5 Specialist Combat Engineer in the North Dakota National Guard, has yet to receive the formal acknowledgment his actions deserve. His story is a powerful reminder of the unacknowledged sacrifices made by many veterans.
The Heroism of Lawrence Eugene Speldrich
In August 1969, at the height of the Vietnam War, Speldrich enlisted in the North Dakota National Guard to avoid being drafted. He trained as a combat engineer and heavy equipment operator, providing vital stateside support, ensuring protection and advancing critical infrastructure.
It was during a bridge-building assignment at Camp Grafton, near Devils Lake, ND, that Speldrich's true character shone. While aboard a boat equipped with an unsecured anchoring tower in turbulent waters, the vessel struck shore incorrectly, causing the tower to slide and pin fellow soldier Robert Kautzman against the side of the boat. The soldier was partially submerged, at risk of drowning or severe injury.
Without hesitation, Speldrich leapt into action. "I knew he was either going to break his legs or drown," he later recalled.
As others on the boat sought safety, Speldrich cradled the heavy anchoring tower in his arms and walked it to the front of the vessel. Tragically, the immense weight of the double-I beam tower and the slick rocks caused him to slip. The tower fell, shattering his back and inflicting injuries that left him with chronic pain and nerve damage-a burden he still carries to this day.
A Lifetime of Pain
Speldrich was hospitalized for months in Aurora, CO, undergoing intensive recovery alongside other severely injured soldiers returning from Vietnam. "I laid there for months surrounded by soldiers hanging from meat curtains after being injured across the pond," he said, vividly recalling the grim atmosphere. Despite his own condition, he took time to wheel other soldiers around the hospital grounds, offering companionship and hope.
When Speldrich was finally able to walk again, he sought release from the hospital, only to discover that his records had been lost upon his arrival. Without proper documentation, he left the hospital without adequate medical release, an oversight that would haunt him for years.
His journey home was fraught with anxiety, as the nation was still roiled by civil unrest. Fearing protesters and possible violence, he was relieved to find the airport empty late at night when he boarded the plane for home.
Speldrich returned to service in the National Guard, but by 1977, his worsening back condition forced him into retirement. Seeking VA disability compensation, he was met with another roadblock: his service records, including documentation of his injuries, had been destroyed in the infamous fire at Fort Leonard Wood in 1973.
Undeterred, Speldrich fought to reclaim what he could. He eventually located one fragile "onion paper" accident report stored in Washington, D.C., which briefly documented the life-saving event.
The Call for Recognition
Despite his heroism, Speldrich has never received formal recognition-not even a thank-you. After years of silence, his family is now advocating for him to receive the North Dakota Distinguished Service Medal. This honor would not only acknowledge his bravery but also highlight the broader issue of overlooked veterans.
Governor Doug Burgum is being urged to award Speldrich this distinction, which would serve as a powerful reminder that every act of heroism, regardless of where it occurred, deserves acknowledgment.
How You Can Help
To support Lawrence Eugene Speldrich in his quest for recognition, contact North Dakota representatives and express your support for his nomination. His story is a testament to the unyielding spirit of our veterans and the sacrifices they make, often in silence.
Let us honor the heroes among us and ensure that bravery-no matter where it occurs-is never forgotten.
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