Col. Thorsness was born on February 14, 1932 in Walnut Grove, Minnesota. As an active duty fighter pilot during the Vietnam War, he was awarded the United States’ highest distinction for valor in action against an enemy force, the Congressional Medal of Honor. Colonel Thorsness passed away on May 2, 2017 at the age of 85. His legacy will be honored for generations to come by everyone inspired by his story of bravery and his dedication to his family, faith, friends, and country.