Central ND News

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak and U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven have introduced legislation to rename the Casselton post office in honor of Commander Delbert Austin Olson. The proposal seeks to designate the facility at 840 Front Street as the Commander Delbert Austin Olson Post Office.

"Commander Delbert Olson was a true North Dakota hero. He answered the call and served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, and made the ultimate sacrifice," said Fedorchak. "Renaming the Casselton Post Office in his honor is a small way to show how much we value his sacrifice and to make sure his story lives on in the town he loved."

Commander Olson's military service included participation in three major conflicts: World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. During his time with Observation Squadron 67 in Vietnam, he undertook missions along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. On January 11, 1968, he perished when his plane went down. His remains were interred at Arlington National Cemetery in 2003.

“I’m honored to join the effort to rename the post office in Casselton after Commander Delbert Austin Olson,” stated Cramer. “This renaming is not merely a gesture but a lasting affirmation of Commander Olson’s indelible legacy—crafted through his selfless dedication during pivotal times in our history, including WWII, the Korean War, and his heroic sacrifice in the Vietnam War."

Olson received several commendations for his service, including prestigious awards such as the Navy Commendation Medal with valor and the Purple Heart. His name appears on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall alongside fellow fallen servicemen.

“Commander Olson honorably served our nation... ultimately giving his life in service to our country,” said Hoeven.“Given his lifetime of service, it is fitting that we name the post office in Casselton, North Dakota in his honor.”

The bill previously passed unanimously in the Senate during its last session.