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38 Facts About Larry Thorne

Issy Bae

Written by Issy Bae

Modified & Updated: 01 Dec 2024

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Source: Norwalkctheroes.org

Who was Larry Thorne? Larry Thorne, born Lauri Allan Törni, was a Finnish-American soldier whose life reads like an action-packed novel. Born in Finland in 1919, he first fought against the Soviet Union during the Winter War. Later, he joined the German Waffen-SS to continue battling the Soviets. After World War II, Thorne moved to the United States, where he joined the U.S. Army Special Forces. He served with distinction in Vietnam, earning multiple medals for bravery. His helicopter went down in 1965, and his remains were not found until 1999. Thorne's story is one of relentless courage and dedication.

Key Takeaways:

  • Larry Thorne, a Finnish-American soldier, led a remarkable life, serving in multiple countries and conflicts. His bravery and dedication continue to inspire soldiers and historians worldwide.
  • Thorne's legacy lives on through honors, books, and cultural impact. His final resting place at Arlington National Cemetery symbolizes his unique dual legacy and continues to draw visitors from around the world.
Table of Contents
01Who Was Larry Thorne?
02Transition to the United States
03Vietnam War and Final Mission
04Legacy and Recognition
05Personal Life and Interests
06Honors and Awards
07Cultural Impact
08Final Resting Place
09Larry Thorne's Legacy

Who Was Larry Thorne?

Larry Thorne, born Lauri Allan Törni, was a Finnish-American soldier with a fascinating life story. His military career spanned multiple countries and conflicts, making him a legendary figure.

  1. Larry Thorne was born on May 28, 1919, in Viipuri, Finland, which is now part of Russia.
  2. He initially served in the Finnish Army during the Winter War against the Soviet Union in 1939-1940.
  3. Thorne earned the Mannerheim Cross, Finland's highest military honor, for his bravery during the Continuation War.
  4. After World War II, he joined the German Waffen-SS to continue fighting against the Soviets.
  5. Following Germany's defeat, Thorne was captured by British forces but managed to escape a POW camp.

Transition to the United States

Thorne's journey didn't end in Europe. He made his way to the United States, where he continued his military career under a new name.

  1. In 1950, Thorne emigrated to the United States and enlisted in the U.S. Army under the name Larry Thorne.
  2. He joined the U.S. Army Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets.
  3. Thorne became an expert in guerrilla warfare and survival techniques.
  4. He participated in numerous Cold War-era missions, including operations in Iran and Vietnam.
  5. Thorne's fluency in multiple languages, including Finnish, German, and English, made him a valuable asset.

Vietnam War and Final Mission

Thorne's service in Vietnam marked the final chapter of his storied military career. His dedication and bravery continued to shine through.

  1. Thorne was deployed to Vietnam in the early 1960s as part of the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG).
  2. He led covert operations behind enemy lines, gathering intelligence and disrupting enemy activities.
  3. Thorne's leadership and tactical skills earned him the respect of his peers and superiors.
  4. On October 18, 1965, Thorne's helicopter crashed during a mission in Laos.
  5. Despite extensive search efforts, his remains were not recovered until 1999.

Legacy and Recognition

Larry Thorne's legacy lives on through various honors and remembrances. His life story continues to inspire soldiers and historians alike.

  1. Thorne was posthumously promoted to the rank of Major in the U.S. Army.
  2. In 2003, his remains were finally identified and returned to the United States.
  3. Thorne was buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
  4. His name is inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
  5. Thorne's story has been the subject of books, documentaries, and articles.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his military career, Thorne had a personal life and interests that shaped who he was as a person.

  1. Thorne was known for his love of adventure and the outdoors.
  2. He enjoyed skiing, mountaineering, and other outdoor activities.
  3. Thorne was married briefly, but the marriage ended in divorce.
  4. He had no children, dedicating his life to military service.
  5. Thorne maintained close ties with his family in Finland, despite his long absences.

Honors and Awards

Thorne's bravery and dedication earned him numerous awards and honors from multiple countries.

  1. He received the Mannerheim Cross, Finland's highest military decoration.
  2. Thorne was awarded the Iron Cross by Germany for his service in the Waffen-SS.
  3. In the United States, he received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
  4. Thorne was also awarded the Legion of Merit for his exceptional service.
  5. His contributions to the U.S. Army Special Forces are still remembered and honored today.

Cultural Impact

Larry Thorne's life has had a lasting impact on popular culture and military history.

  1. His story has been featured in several books, including "The Green Beret" by Robin Moore.
  2. Thorne's life inspired characters in movies and TV shows about special forces.
  3. He is considered a hero in both Finland and the United States.
  4. Thorne's legacy is celebrated annually in Finland on Veterans' Day.
  5. His life story is taught in military academies as an example of bravery and dedication.

Final Resting Place

Thorne's final resting place is a testament to his extraordinary life and service.

  1. Thorne's remains were interred at Arlington National Cemetery, a place of honor for American military heroes.
  2. His grave is visited by veterans, historians, and admirers from around the world.
  3. Thorne's headstone bears both his Finnish and American names, symbolizing his unique dual legacy.

Larry Thorne's Legacy

Larry Thorne's life was nothing short of extraordinary. From his early days in Finland to his daring missions with the U.S. Army, Thorne's story is filled with bravery, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His actions during World War II and the Vietnam War earned him numerous accolades and a place in military history. Thorne's ability to adapt and excel in different environments showcases his remarkable skills and determination.

His legacy continues to inspire soldiers and history enthusiasts alike. Thorne's story reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who serve and the impact one individual can have on the course of history. Whether you're a military buff or just someone who appreciates incredible life stories, Larry Thorne's tale is one worth remembering. His life serves as a testament to courage, adaptability, and unwavering dedication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Larry Thorne?
Larry Thorne, born Lauri Allan Törni, was a soldier whose life reads like an action-packed novel. Originally hailing from Finland, he made a name for himself fighting in World War II against the Soviet Union. Not one to settle down after the war, Thorne later joined the U.S. Army Special Forces, becoming a legend in his own right.
What did Larry Thorne do during World War II?
During World War II, Thorne fought for Finland against the Soviet Union, showcasing remarkable bravery and tactical skill. His efforts earned him numerous medals for bravery. After Finland's wars with the Soviets ended, Thorne didn't hang up his combat boots; instead, he sought new battles.
How did Larry Thorne end up in the U.S. Army?
After World War II, Thorne found himself in a world that had little use for a man of his particular set of skills, at least at first. He moved to the United States, where his combat experience and leadership abilities caught the attention of the U.S. Army. He was given the opportunity to serve, which he eagerly accepted, eventually becoming a Green Beret.
What were some of Larry Thorne's achievements in the U.S. Army?
In the U.S. Army, Thorne's contributions were significant. He excelled in Special Forces, particularly in missions that required his unique expertise in guerrilla warfare and reconnaissance. His actions in Vietnam earned him the Bronze Star Medal for bravery.
Is there a movie about Larry Thorne's life?
Yes, Larry Thorne's life inspired the 1968 movie "The Green Berets," starring John Wayne. While the film doesn't focus solely on Thorne's story, his experiences and character influenced its creation, bringing a touch of his extraordinary life to the big screen.
How did Larry Thorne's military career end?
Thorne's military career ended tragically in 1965 during a covert operation in Vietnam. His helicopter crashed in bad weather, and it took years before his remains were found and identified. This sad end came too soon for such a distinguished soldier.
Can I visit a memorial dedicated to Larry Thorne?
Yes, memorials dedicated to Larry Thorne exist in both the United States and Finland, honoring his service and sacrifice. These sites serve as reminders of his contributions to both countries and his enduring legacy as a soldier who fought for what he believed in across continents.

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