Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty honored Bataan Death March survivor and former prisoner of war Alf Larson, of Crystal, Minn., during his State of The State Address in St. Paul Feb. 6, 2003.

Calling the Death March, "one of the most horrific chapters of the second World War," the governor thanked Larson and all Minnesota veterans for the brutal and courageous steps they took on behalf of a grateful state and nation.

"The sacrifices Minnesotans are being asked to make (today are nothing, nothing compared to the sacrifices the generations before us," Governor Pawlenty said before leading the audience in a standing ovation with continuous, thunderous applause for Larson, who was seated with First Lady Mary Pawlenty in the House of Representatives Chamber.

Governor Pawlenty asked Larson to attend the State of the State event after meeting the former POW at a Jan. 19, 2003, signing for "Footprints in Courage: A Bataan Death March Survivor's Story." The book details Larson's ordeal including the Battle for Bataan, the surrender, 4 hideous concentration camps, the infamous "Hell Ships," and torturous slave labor. He spent a total of 41 long months as a prisoner of war of the Japanese Imperial Army.

President George W. Bush received a signed copy of the book from Senator Barkley. The President paid tribute to Larson in a recent letter when he said, "Americans owe a debt of gratitude to our veterans that we can never fully repay. The brave men and women who fought for our country in Southeast Asia and endured many cruelties as prisoners of war helped to secure our Nation, liberate others from threats of tyranny and terror, and advance the cause of freedom worldwide. By answering the call of duty and risking your lives to protect fellow citizens, you continue to inspire us as we work to extend peace, liberty, and opportunity to people around the world.

"Laura joins me in sending our best wishes. May God bless you, and may God continue to bless America."

Written by war history author Kristin Gilpatrick and Larson's friend and researcher/writer Rick Peterson, Footprints in Courage is available through Badger Books at www.badgerbooks.com or 800.928.2372, at Waldenbooks, Borders, and B Dalton Books. It may be ordered at any major bookstore and at www.amazon.com.