Art Dahlstrand

Art Dahlstrand was born on July 19, 1924, in Stamford, Connecticut. At just 17 years old and eager to serve, Art lied about his age to join the U.S. Marine Corps. He was drawn to the Marines by the sharp dress blues and the pride of service, but his wartime experience would prove much grittier.

Art served in four of the most grueling island invasions in the Pacific Theater, including the brutal Battle of Iwo Jima, where over 6,000 Marines were killed and more than 24,000 wounded. His role placed him among the first waves of Marines landing on enemy beaches. He was tasked with calling in targeting information to offshore artillery and naval guns while under constant threat.

Despite the danger, Art recalled that after long stretches in the diesel-filled landing craft, storming the beach almost felt like relief. His resilience and courage in the face of chaos have earned him admiration from fellow veterans, including senior military leaders like retired Vice Admiral Nora Tyson.