Marty Christiansen

Martin Alexander Christiansen (April 23, 1916 – March 29, 1999) was an American football fullback. Born in Minneapolis, he played college football for the University of Minnesota from 1937 to 1939. He was selected in the fifth round of the 1940 NFL Draft, marking the beginning of his professional football career. He played professional football in the National Football League (NFL) for the Chicago Cardinals during the 1940 season. In 1941, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving in the Battle of Tarawa, where he was wounded in action. For his bravery, he was awarded the Purple Heart. After his football career, he went on to serve as a police officer in Minneapolis and later owned a gas station. He passed away on March 29, 1999 in Minneapolis, leaving behind a legacy of service and sacrifice.