KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The men and women in uniform came together to get the job done. Some kept secrets, while others paved the way for future generations. WATE 6 On Your Side is proud to share these veterans’ stories in this year’s Veterans’ Voices special.
The program highlights East Tennessee veterans’ struggles and accomplishments, revealing their bravery and resilience.
World War II veteran laid to rest 81 years after going missing in Pacific
The veterans highlighted include Herbert R. Colquitt, Kathleen Van Orsdel, Bill Klein, Steve Ball and Bill Martin. Colquitt’s name was recently added to the Knoxville memorial as his family works to remember the sailor who was lost at sea during World War II. Van Orsdel joined the US Air Force just as the Vietnam War was heating up, and now she continues to serve others as a member of the East Tennessee Veterans Honor Guard.
Klein’s records from his flights on a bomber 80 years ago were labeled confidential. Now, years later, those records are helping his family connect with him after his death. Ball worked in the Army’s Quartermaster Corps and food service operation, where he cooked meals to keep the army fed. Martin kept the C-47s flying for his squadron during the Korean War, and he was recently honored by South Korea for his actions as a mechanic…