Guide to the Dennis Klimpke Collection,​ 1968-​2002

Last Updated

Overview of the Collection

 Repository:              
Special Collections & Archives
McIntyre Library
University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire
P.O. Box 4004
105 Garfield Ave.
Eau Claire, WI 54702 – 4004
(715) 836-2739
https://library.uwec.edu/archives/


Reference Code: USGZE UHC292

Accession Number: 07-063

Collection Number: University Historical Collection 292

Creators: Klimpke, Clarence

Title: Dennis Klimpke Collection

Dates: 1965-2002

Quantity: 0.2 linear feet (1 archives boxes)

Location of Collection: A10/3c

Languages: Collection materials are in English.

Summary: Photocopied correspondence and military records of a Vietnam War soldier from Colby, Wis.


Biographical Note


Dennis Lee Klimpke was born in Colby, Wisconsin on October 14, 1946 and attended Colby High School.  He enlisted in the Wisconsin Army National Guard and was honorably discharged in September 1965 after nine months of service.  In August 1967 he was drafted into the army.  He received his basic training at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.  After graduating basic training, he was assigned to the 27th Infantry (the “Wolfhounds”).  His service with Company B, 2nd Batallion in Vietnam began in January 18, 1968.  Klimpke was killed in action on April 15, 1968.  He was posthumously awarded a Silver Star for gallantry in conduct, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart. 


Content Description

The richest sources of information in the collection are the letters exchanged between Klimpke and his mother, siblings, and girlfriend.  They illuminate Dennis Klimpke’s military and combat experiences and his relationships with various members of his family.  The military records document Klimpke’s progress through military training, honors awarded to Klimpke, and the circumstances of his death.  Newspaper clippings and a letter dated 2002 from a fellow soldier whom Klimpke befriended while serving in Vietnam.


Administrative Information

Acquisition Information: Donated to Special Collections & Archives, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire by Clarence Klimpke in July 2006. 

Access Restrictions: Collection is open to the public.

Use Restrictions: Researchers are responsible for using in accordance with 17 U.S.C. Copyright not owned by the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire.

Preferred Citation: Dennis Klimpke Collection, 1965-2002. UHC 292. Special Collections & Archives.  McIntyre Library.  University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire. Eau Claire, WI.

Processing Note: Processed by Colleen McFarland in August 2006.

Arrangement: Flat arrangement; original order


Subjects

Personal Names: Klimpke, Dennis

Corporate Names: United States. Army. Infantry Division, 27th. Battalion, 2nd.

Subject Terms:
Soldiers – Wisconsin – Colby
Vietnam War, 1961-1975 – Sources
Vietnam War, 1961-1975 – Social Aspects