Captain Keith Van Neste

On a visit to the Museum of Nebraska History in Lincoln last Tuesday, I was introduced to the story of Captain Keith G. Van Neste of Anselmo, Nebraska. He was awarded a Bronze Star and posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for actions against German forces in April 1945. But as I closely examined some photos and documents relating to Captain van Neste, I discovered that he was a member of the 2nd Infantry Division throughout World War II. Whoah!!! For me this was an important discovery, the story of a 2nd Division hero from right here in the heart of Nebraska.

Captain Van Neste was born in Brewster, Nebraska. He was a Class of '38 member of Acacia Fraternity at the University of Nebraska. He joined the 23rd Infantry Regiment in July 1941 and was greatly admired by the officers and enlisted men with whom he served. At the time of his death, Captain Van Neste was serving with the Headquarters Company of the 23rd Regiment. He was killed in a mortar attack while trying to repair a wire line in Schkopau, Germany on April 13, 1945.

Here is a photo of Captain Van Neste in the Hurtgen Forest. Photo is from the collection of the Nebraska State Historical Society.

Listed below is a synopsis of his Distinguished Service Cross citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Keith G. Van Neste (0-405360), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 13 April 1945. Captain Van Neste's outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 2d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Here is the condolence letter to Mrs. Margaret Van Neste from Col. Jay Lovless, commander of the 23rd Infantry Regiment. This letter is from the collection of the Nebraska State Historical Society.
Here is the dreaded Western Union telegram sent to Mrs. Van Neste informing her of her husband's death. This telegram is from the collection of the Nebraska State Historical Society.
I am extremely honored and excited to be able to share the story of Captain Keith Van Neste with others as I continue to present the proud history of the 2nd Infantry Division with the public. This discovery has really re-energized me in my mission to ensure that future generations know what men like these did for our country to protect our freedoms for posterity.