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In Memory of U.S. Army Specialist Fifth Class

Steven Allen Trant

Custer, South Dakota, Custer County

November 12, 1951 – July 21, 1972

Died Non-Battle in Vietnam

Steven Allen Trant was born in Rapid City, South Dakota, on November 12, 1951, to Thomas and Mary (Thebo) Trant. He grew up in Custer, South Dakota, with two brothers and his sister: Thomas, Jr., Michael, and Rebecca. Tom remembers that Steve “had a lot of friends and was a fun loving guy.” He also has memories that Steve—in the role of older brother—would look out for him and protect him.

On February 26, 1969, Steven Trant entered the Army; he re-enlisted in the service while stationed in Germany on May 22, 1970. Specialist Trant went to Vietnam on August 9, 1970, part of Troop H, 10th Cavalry, 17th Aviation Group, and 1st Aviation Brigade.

On July 21, 1972, Specialist Steven Allen Trant died non-battle in the Binh Dinh Province of Vietnam. His body was recovered and returned to the United States. He was buried in the Custer Cemetery with military honors. He was survived at the time of his death by his father, mother, brothers, and sister.

In conclusion, posted on the VVMF.org site, his high school classmate Peter L. Fleming left the following tribute to Steve:

I heard you didn’t make it home… I came to visit the wall while I was stationed in Washington, D.C., and saw your name. I will never forget the sacrifice you made… You were too young to go, brother. Wish I could have been there to help.

Tom wrote in closing that Steve is “greatly missed” by his family and that he thinks of him often, hoping Steve knows how much is loved and missed.

This entry was respectfully submitted by Zachary Kerr, 8th grade, Spearfish Middle School, Spearfish, South Dakota, on March 27, 2006. Information for this entry was provided by a South Dakota Vietnam Veteran’s bonus application, the Custer Co. Chronicle, Thursday, July 27, 1972, and Thursday, August 3, 1972, and www.vvmf.org. Additional information and profile approval by Tom Trant, brother.