Kindt was drafted into the United States Army in 1943 while at Wisconsin , in the mist of World War II . He reported to active duty on February 1 , 1944 , receiving basic training at Fort Wolters , Texas . After training , Kindt was assigned to the Army 's 10th Mountain Division . He missed the 1944 season and half of the 1945 season while participating in the Italian Campaign . He was rewarded with two Bronze Stars , and a Victory Medal for his actions in Italy . Kindt returned to play for the Badgers in October 1945 . In his return , Kindt shared the halfback position with Ben Bendrick , and Jerry Thompson . Kindt only managed to play three games that season , mainly because of a late release he received while returning from the Army . When Kindt returned to the squad , one journalist took it as far as hailing Kindt 's return as a " godsend " who inspired the Badgers with his " inspirational play " . He scored two touchdowns against Iowa upon his return . In the season finale on November 24 against the Minnesota Golden Gophers , Kindt scored three touchdowns despite being used as a " blocking back " in a 26 – 12 win . The Badgers finished the season with a 3 – 4 – 2 record
Victory Medal
World War II Victory Medal (United States)
Don Kindt