Finnish Forces

Olavi Alakulppi

Olavi Alakulppi (1915 – 1990) was a known Finnish cross country skier and a Knight of the Mannerheim Cross. Alakulppi served in all three wars of Finland: Winter War(1939-40), Continuation War(1941-44), Lapland War(1944-45). He advanced from sergeant to captain during the war. As well as he received two the Mannerheim Cross(2nd Clss) and two Cross of Liberty, He also received the Iron Cross (2nd Class)of the German army during the war. After WW2 Alakulppi moved to U.S.A. with his wife and son and joined the United States Army serving 1947-1968 in numerous tasks including the Korean war. In US Army he achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Olavi Alakulppi died in August 19, 1990 and is buried to the Arlington National Cemetery.