KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — A Maryville fishing team celebrated Veterans Day on Sunday by connecting with local veterans.
At the Cove at Concord Park, the Eagleton College and Career Academy fishing team invited residents from the Ben Atchley Veterans home to spend the day together.
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“This feels like a dream, it feels like something that can’t be real to me, I’m so happy today, this makes me happy to my toenails,” said World War II veteran William Phelps.
After spending years serving with the 101 st Airborne Division and being in Normandy for D-Day, the 99-year-old Phelps said it’s the simple things that bring him joy.
“I have not caught a fish but I’m enjoying it. They’ve got fish, freezers full of ‘em.” he said with a laugh.
Whether or not he got a fish, Phelps said spending time with nature and making new friends is a great way for him to spend Veterans’ Day. High School senior Carson Holbert said it was a blessing.