Photo: Portrait of Private First Class Anton J. Elvesæter
In the early morning hours of 6th June 1944, as the world braced for the greatest military assault in history, the Allied forces were preparing to storm the beaches of Normandy in what would become the turning point of the Second World War. But while many soldiers would soon hit the shores of Utah Beach, the heroic journey of Private First Class Anton J. Elvesæter ended an hour before those landings even began. His story—a tale of courage, devotion, and selflessness—has become an enduring reminder of the sacrifices made by countless Norwegian heroes.
Born in 1906, in Trondheim, Norway, Anton’s life began amidst the stunning and picturesque landscapes of his native country. He was the pride and joy of his parents, John and Gjertrude Elvesæter. At the age of 25, Anton left Norway and set off for the United States to live with his uncle in Presho, South Dakota. He quickly embraced his new life, working as a well driller and at his uncle’s petrol station, but he never forgot his Norwegian roots. His family’s proud heritage remained central to his identity.
When the Nazis invaded Norway in 1940, Anton’s resolve to defend freedom was unwavering. He immediately enlisted in the US Army to fight against the forces of tyranny that had conquered most of Europe. He was later assigned to the 24th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, a unit known for its bravery and skill, and was eager to help liberate the land of his ancestors.
As the months passed, Anton often thought about his parents in Nazi-occupied Norway. The waiting seemed endless. On 6th June 1944, he finally found himself in the thick of the action, heading toward the Saint-Marcouf Islands—small, uninhabited rocks off the coast of Utah Beach. The islands were critical to securing the beachhead for the main invasion but were also extremely dangerous, heavily mined and booby trapped by the Germans. Anton and his comrades in the 24th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron were tasked with clearing and securing the islands before the main assault.
At exactly 5:30 am, as the men moved toward the islands, tragedy struck. A mine exploded, tearing through the quiet morning and ending Anton’s life instantly. He was just 37 years old, with so much life ahead and so much to give.
PFC Anton J. Elvesaeter’s sacrifice reflects the valour of countless young men who left their homes, families, and futures behind to fight for something greater than themselves. His death occurred just before the first waves of Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy. Though he did not live to see the victory, his role was essential to the success that followed. Like so many other Norwegian heroes, Anton was part of a broader effort that helped lead to the liberation of Europe and the collapse of Nazi Germany.
When the news of his death reached his parents, they were devastated. In the quiet of their home in occupied Norway, they mourned not only the loss of their beloved son but the life that might have been—a life full of promise and dreams now lost forever. Their grief was deep, but their pride in Anton remained unshaken.
Anton now rests at the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, France, where endless rows of white marble crosses and Stars of David stand in solemn formation across the serene cliffs overlooking the sea. Each one marks not just a grave, but a story—a voice, a name—someone who gave everything they had for everything we have.
Anton J. Elvesaeter stands as a true Norwegian hero—embodying resilience, patriotism, and dedication to the ideals of democracy. His sacrifice, like those of so many others, is woven into the fabric of both Norwegian and American history, a powerful reflection of the courage and conviction of those who fought for a better world. Anton’s story speaks to all of us—every Norwegian, every American, and anyone who values freedom, peace, and justice. As long as we remember him and keep his memory alive, Anton’s legacy will continue to guide and inspire future generations to stand up for what is right.
Photo: Anton J. Elvesæter’s grave (Left) and Portrait of Anton J. Elvesæter (Right)
John Dekhane compiled sources on PFC Anton J. Elvesaeter, ranging from fold3.com to old newspaper clippings from South Dakota, and the Normandy Association “Mémoire & Database”. There is conflicting information about Anton’s life (such as the exact day and month of his birth), so author included in his article only factual details, such as the year of his birth (1906).
The views expressed are author’s own and do not necessarily represent the views of The Oslo Desk.
