Legacy INDUCTEE

EDWARD J. “ED” MARN (1920-2012) 

DISTRICT 5 - YEAR 2025

Edward J. Marn was born on October 7, 1920, to John and Anna Marn, on their ranch near Belt, Montana. Surrounded by the beautiful and often harsh Highwood Mountains, “Ed's” upbringing was quintessentially cowboy, and the values of hard work, determination, and community were branded into his character from an early age.

Following his graduation from Belt Valley High School, Ed dedicated himself to the family ranch, cultivating the practical skills and tenacity that would serve him well in the future. In 1942, when World War II erupted, Ed's sense of duty led him to enlist with the 386th Regiment, Company D, of the United States Army—a decision that marked the beginning of an illustrious military career. The Army wanted him to train troops and guaranteed him a captaincy within three months, but Ed declined, stating, “I didn’t want any part of that. I wanted to fight.”

Ed's distinguished service as a second lieutenant in the 97th Infantry Division is his most heralded military achievement. During the climactic Battle of the Ruhr Pocket in Franzensbad, Germany, Ed exhibited extraordinary bravery. As an 81-mm mortar section leader, he laid 400 yards of wire under relentless small arms and artillery fire to establish a forward observation post. This heroic deed, on April 26, 1945, significantly aided his company's advance. For his gallantry in action, Ed was awarded the Silver Star—the highest distinction a division commander can bestow on a member of his command. 

Ed and his outfit spent ten months in the European Theater, and after a leave in the States, were sent on to invade the mainland of Japan. Three days out to sea, the war ended. With the cessation of hostilities in the Pacific Theater, Ed’s mission in Japan shifted dramatically. Instead of combat, his focus turned to gathering ammunition and fostering international relationships. In a remarkable effort to share American culture and build post-war morale, Ed played a pivotal role in organizing the first rodeo ever witnessed by the Japanese people. He was instrumental in every aspect of the event, from ordering the roughstock from Australia to rallying experienced cowboys to participate. Through these efforts, Ed not only contributed to post-war diplomatic efforts but also introduced a fascinating aspect of the American West to a new audience. In a November 12, 1945 letter from Honjo, Japan, Ed wrote:

Another Lt. and I took 38 days down from the division to contest there. Well, there really was a crowd there. Around 60,000…I entered bareback bronc and drew an Australian stud. Made a heck of a good ride on him too…we had a lot of fun anyway, so it was worth it.

Affectionately dubbed "The Honjo Kid," Ed earned the honorary keys to the city—a symbol of his ability to connect with people from all backgrounds. 

In addition to the Silver Star, Ed's military service earned him a bevy of honors: the American Theater Service Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal with two bronze stars, the Asiatic Pacific Medal, and the WWII Victory Medal. Each accolade stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment and valor.

In 1946, Ed returned to his hometown of Belt and started working as a range rider at the historic Willow Creek Ranch raising some of the best show Herefords in the nation. He was joined by his brother John, who had also recently returned from World War II after serving as a Marine. Together, the brothers returned to ranch life, reconnecting with the land and each other after their wartime experiences. Despite Ed’s extensive travels and exposure to the world's beauties and challenges, Montana always held a special place in his heart. Reflecting on his post-war return, Ed remarked, "How can you not want to come back, especially to Montana?" 

His passion for rodeo was undiminished; Ed was a formidable bronc rider and achieved notable success, including winning the prestigious saddle at the renowned Wolf Point Wild Horse Stampede—one of the most coveted prizes in rodeo. 

Ed married the love of his life, Billie Beryl Fish, on April 19, 1947, and together they raised three children, Jerry, Patty Jo and Kathy. The family lived on the ranch in Belt until 1971, when they moved into town. Ed’s work ethic and sense of public service found a new home in his role as the maintenance supervisor for the city of Belt, a position he held until the age of 84.

Ed was a legend in the community. Always clad in his signature pearl snap shirt and cowboy hat, he was often seen riding through town on his two-speed bike, complete with an authentic set of longhorns. Known for his resourcefulness, Ed was never one to waste anything—not even fuel. He was renowned for his physical strength, as well as his quiet competitiveness. On any given day in the city of Belt he could be found surrounded by a crowd of gamblers and contenders, grasping a light pole and effortlessly holding his body parallel to the ground. No one could ever outlast him, and inevitably, those contenders departed with lighter pockets and a newfound respect for a man who was often many years their senior.

Ed was not only a pillar in his professional endeavors but also a stalwart member of his community. He was a committed member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and a devout parishioner at St. Mark's Catholic Church. His humility, integrity, and dedication to family and community stood as an example for all who knew him.

Ed was one of those rare individuals who naturally commanded respect. He was a man of few words, but when he spoke, everyone listened because his words carried weight. He consistently took care of those around him, never asking for anything in return. One of the few gifts he would be willing to accept was a bottle of Peach Schnapps. Ed grew fond of “schnoptz, or whatever you call it,” during his time in Germany, and he was always ready to enjoy a good “eye opener or night cap,” whichever came first.

From the big sky of Montana to the battlefields of World War II, and the rodeo arenas of the American West and beyond, Ed’s legacy is one of remarkable achievement and enduring influence. His nomination for induction into the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame is not just fitting—it is a well-deserved acknowledgment of a life led with honor, bravery, and an unwavering commitment to the cowboy tradition and American values.

References: 

The Eagle, Volume 8, Number 50 Wed., April 26, 1995

“The Hall of Valor Project.” Military Times Hall of Valor. Sightline Media Group, 2024. 7 July 2024. https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/26317.

Marn, Edward. Personal Letter to Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Gliko, November 12, 1945, Honjo, Japan. Marn Family Collection, Belt, MT.

Stober, Eva. “Silver Star Awarded 50 Years Ago.” The Eagle 25 April 1995, page 1.

Marn, Edward. Personal Letter to Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Gliko, April 15, 1945, Germany. Marn Family Collection, Belt, MT.