Arthur Van Ostenberg

Birthplace: Grand Rapids, MI

Branch of Service: Army

Unit: SHAEF

Theater of Operation: European

Enlisted / Commissioned: Mar 25, 1941

Discharged: Aug 21, 1945

Highest Rank: TSgt

Honored By: Eisenhower Foundation

When Arthur Van Ostenberg was drafted, his last name was spelled Van Oostenbrugge. After the war, the spelling was changed to Van Ostenberg. During World War II, he was a driver and clerical assistant in the Office of the Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force (SHAEF). There was always a personal feeling between the General and the people on his staff. He was very much admired and Van Ostenberg was extremely proud to be part of his staff. The General always called him ‘Sgt Van.’

Shortly after he was discharged, General Eisenhower honored him with a personal letter of recommendation, one of his most prized possessions: “TSgt Arthur Van Oostenbrugge has served me faithfully and loyally for over three years. He has acted as chauffeur and assistant in my offices in Britain, Africa, France, and Germany. He is ambitious, industrious, and has at all times shown outstanding tact and courtesy in the fulfillment of his various duties. I am confident that any position for which Sergeant Van Oostenbrugge is trained, will be carried out in an orderly and expeditious manner, and I recommend him most highly. Signed Dwight D. Eisenhower, General of the Army, U.S. Army”