Born August 26, 1919 in Monterrey, Mexico where his father worked as a mining engineer. Moved to Denver, Colo. when he was two years old. Graduated from Denver's East High School in 1936 and entered the Colorado School of Mines the same year. After graduation, joined the U.S. Gypsum Company at Heath, Mont., where he worked as a quality control tester and later as wallboard superintendent. Joined the Army in June 1942. Trained with the 10th Light Division (Alpine) at Camp Hale, Colorado in October 1943 and was assigned to the 126th Mountain Engineer Battalion. Participated in the grueling D-Series maneuvers in the Spring of 1944. 126th Engineers deployed to Italy on January 5, 1945. Nagel commanded Company D, of the 126th Mountain Engineering Battalion. Company built the only aerial tramway to be constructed under enemy fire during the 10th Mountain Division's battle for Riva Ridge and Mount Belvedere in February 1945. Company made the first assault crossing of the Po River on April 23, 1945. Served in the Korean War and had various careers including sales engineer for precut cedar log houses, right of way negotiator for the Colorado Highway Department, general manager of a bridge building company, highway engineer, computer consultant and sanitation engineer. Married Lois Corretore in 1948 and has three children. Active with the National Association of the 10th Mountain Division, and has participated in numerous reunions. Died in Denver, Colo. on May 22, 2008.
From the description of Fred A. Nagel papers, 1933-2003 [manuscript]. (Denver Public Library). WorldCat record id: 60343333
