Kenneth Teunissen

Ken Teunissen was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1969 and later enlisting and serving for nearly a decade, including time in Vietnam and Berlin, Germany. In February 1970, Teunissen was providing cover fire when he suffered a shrapnel wound to his leg.

Along with the Purple Heart, SSG Teunissen was awarded numerous medals and commendations during his service, including the Bronze Star, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, and more.

U.S. Army Staff Sergeant (SSG) Ken Teunissen represented his fellow Purple Heart heroes as South Dakota’s honoree during the 2023 Purple Heart Patriot Project Mission.