Theodore Garnette
Bio
Theodore “Ted” Garnette is a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and was born and raised on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in Kyle, South Dakota. When the Korean War broke out, he left school and joined the United States Air Force, choosing the Air Force because of educational opportunities. He was later honored with an eagle feather ceremony, the highest recognition awarded to members of the tribe, for his decision to enlist. Following basic training, he was sent to Tripoli in Africa, from where he was flown to Korea to perform classified missions utilizing his excellent marksmanship. After a year, he returned Stateside, and from there he was assigned to England for a year where he encountered many people fascinated by his American Indian heritage. Upon leaving the service, he signed a secrecy act that prevented him from discussing his missions during the Korean War. Later in life, he has spent much of his time preoccupied with traditional beadwork which he showcases at fairs and other special events.
Video Clips
Basic Training in Geneva, New York
Theodore Garnette expresses his desire to enlist in the United States Air Force as a means of receiving advanced training to further his education. He discusses his upbringing on an Indian Reservation in South Dakota and how it had prepared him for the physical demands of basic training. He shares how the officers at boot camp were impressed by his marksmanship despite his small stature.
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Eagle Feather Ceremony and Radio School
Theodore Garnette acknowledges that his decision to enlist in the United States Air Force was highly admired by other members of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. He vividly recalls being honored as a warrior with an eagle feather ceremony, the highest recognition awarded to members of the tribe. Later, he was transferred to Biloxi, Mississippi, for radio school where he received training to become an intercept operator.
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After a Year in England
Theodore Garnette remembers his year-long assignment in England where he encountered many people who were fascinated by his American Indian heritage. He recalls feeling disappointed when the military halted personnel promotions after the Korean War ended. He shares how this development prompted him to not re-enlist. He recounts how after returning to Illinois he worked in a watch factory and car garage to support himself and his mother.
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The Effects of Serving
Theodore Garnette expresses his frustration regarding his discharge from the military due to the classified duties he performed while serving in Korea. He reveals that he signed a secrecy act upon leaving the service which prevented him from discussing his missions during the Korean War. He shares he did not receive any medals for his classified work. Despite these challenges, he acknowledges that serving in the military had a positive impact on his life and admits he has continued to receive excellent care from the VA hospital.
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