ND Veterans Affairs News: State

ACOVA

Nominated by VFW to complete 2025-2028 term vacated by Jim Verwey. Appointed by Governor Armstrong on 01/05/2026.

Subcommittees served on

• Post War Trust Fund and Appeals 2026-present

Member of Veteran Service Organizations

Jacob W Woods was born on April 17, 1916, in Claire City, Roberts County, South Dakota to Itancan John (Johnny) Woods and Esther GoodBird Woods. He entered the United States Army on October 16, 1940, and was killed in action on March 16, 1945. Private First Class Woods is buried in Block 09, Lot American Legion, Space 17, GAR 3rd Addition, Devils Lake Cemetery, Devils Lake, Ramsey County, North Dakota. 

Claude Grey was born on February 3, 1917, in Fort Totten, Benson County, North Dakota to Paul and Dora Grey. He entered the United States Army on May 10, 1941, at Fort Snelling, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Private Grey served as a Military Policeman at a POW camp (SCU 1982) in Papago Park, Phoenix, Arizona and was separated from service due to death on January 10, 1945. He is buried at Saint Jerome's Catholic Cemetery, Fort Totten, Benson County, North Dakota.

Andrew (Andy) Whalen Shaw was born on January 29, 1930, in Lallie Township, Benson County, North Dakota to William Shaw Jr. and Lillian Jane Shaw. He entered the United States Army on September 21, 1948, and served in the Korean War during the Battle of Chociwan. Corporal Shaw was part of the POWs that endured a brutal forced march now known as the Tiger Death March and was released through negotiations known as Operation Big Switch. He received the Occupational Medal Japan, the Korean Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal.