Theodore Garnette
Bio
Theodore Garnette is a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. He was born and raised on an Indian Reservation in Kyle, South Dakota. He joined the United States Air Force in order to further his education. He was later honored with an eagle feather ceremony, the highest recognition awarded to members of the tribe, for his decision to enlist. After serving in Korea, 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 prevents him from discussing his missions during the Korean War. Nowadays, he spends his time preoccupied with traditional bead-work, 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 so he could receive 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 comments that 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 a lot of people who were fascinated by his American Indian heritage. He recalls feeling disappointed when the military halted personnel promotions after the Korean War ended. This prompted him to not re-enlist. After returning to Illinois, he worked in a watch factory and car garage to support himself and his mother.
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The Affects of Serving
Theodore Garnette expresses his frustration when he was discharged 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 prevents him from discussing his missions during the Korean War. 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 he continues to receive excellent care from the VA hospital.
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