Portraits of Honor

Carl Cooper (Colonel, Marine Corps)

Velocity Studios — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today we feature Colonel Carl Cooper, the first veteran photographed by Jeff Rease. He had a remarkable 38-year tenure with the Marine Corps. A valiant warrior, he faced fierce battles in WWII's Pacific theater in Guadalcanal and Okinawa. He also served in Korea, followed by training and recruiting during Vietnam. Beyond the battlefield, Cooper spent many years teaching and coaching in high school and junior high school education. After his retirement, he dedicated another 30 years to FEMA until 2010. He was an embodiment of service and bravery whose legacy stands tall. This interview was recorded on April 10, 2019 in Vestavia Hills, Alabama.

Jerome Wilner (Second Lieutenant, Army) - Part 2

Velocity Studios — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

(Part 2) This exciting episode features Jerome Wilner, a WWII bombardier/navigator who went from Cornell to the skies of Europe. Jerome defied the odds to survive 30 harrowing missions on B-17s over Germany, surrounded by deadly flak. Hear how his indomitable spirit carried him through the war and perilous bomb runs. From academia to the fierce theater of war, Jerome's story is a testament to adaptability and resilience. This interview was recorded on May 12, 2021, in Rockville Maryland.

Jerome Wilner (Second Lieutenant, Army) - Part 1

Velocity Studios — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

This exciting episode features Jerome Wilner, a WWII bombardier/navigator who went from Cornell to the skies of Europe. Jerome defied the odds to survive 30 harrowing missions on B-17s over Germany, surrounded by deadly flak. Hear how his indomitable spirit carried him through the war and perilous bomb runs. From academia to the fierce theater of war, Jerome's story is a testament to adaptability and resilience. This interview was recorded on May 12, 2021, in Rockville Maryland.

Morton Waitzman (Technical Sergeant, Army) - Part 2 | S1E19

Velocity Studios — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

(Part 2 of 2) This episode explores the extraordinary life of Morton Waitzman, an Army veteran who played a vital role on D-Day as a communication specialist. From landing on Omaha Beach, intercepting German codes, to facilitating critical communications with the French resistance, his journey is a riveting tale of courage, dedication, and resilience. As we explore his transition from soldier to scholar, his inspiring story connects the battlefields of WWII to the halls of Emory University, blending history with a legacy in academia. This interview was recorded on September 21, 2022, in Atlanta Georgia.

Morton Waitzman (Technical Sergeant, Army) - Part 1 | S1E18

Velocity Studios — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

(Part 1 of 2) This episode explores the extraordinary life of Morton Waitzman, an Army veteran who played a vital role on D-Day as a communication specialist. From landing on Omaha Beach, intercepting German codes, to facilitating critical communications with the French resistance, his journey is a riveting tale of courage, dedication, and resilience. As we explore his transition from soldier to scholar, his inspiring story connects the battlefields of WWII to the halls of Emory University, blending history with a legacy in academia. This interview was recorded on September 21, 2022, in Atlanta Georgia.

Claude Hillenbrand (Technical Sergeant, Army Air Corps) | S1E17

Velocity Studios — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

In this gripping episode, we hear from Claude Hillenbrand, a dedicated flight engineer and gunner on B-17 "Flying Fortresses." His compelling tale of resilience takes us through 35 perilous missions, including D-Day, navigating the war-torn skies of WWII Europe and the Pacific in iconic B-17s like "Vini Viti Vici" and "Smokey Liz." From field rations to oxygen masks, Hillenbrand's detailed account offers a vivid glimpse into the life of an Army Air Corps serviceman. This interview was recorded on September 1, 2020, in Spring Hill, Tennessee.

Bud Anderson (Brigadier General, Air Force) | S1E16

Velocity Studios — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Get ready for a thrilling journey as we chat with Clarence Emil "Bud" Anderson, the highest scoring living American fighter ace and WWII triple ace. From his first combat tours to innovative flight test programs, Bud's extraordinary aviation career spans over 130 different aircraft types and 7,500 flying hours. We delve into his action-packed dogfights, his survival strategies, and the accolades he earned. Now at 101, Bud continues to inspire and captivate with his remarkable stories of skill, technique, and patience in the skies. His rank above was his last rank of service. He received an honorary promotion to Brigadier General in the past year. This interview was recorded on March 25, 2023, in Auburn California.

Peter Orlando (Staff Sergeant, Army) | S1E15

Velocity Studios — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Today we dive deep with Peter Orlando, a Navy veteran from South Boston who played a pivotal role in World War II. From constructing artificial harbors for the Normandy landings to rescuing stranded ships, and even surviving a shipwreck himself. Discover how his French language skills bridged a critical gap between American troops and French command in occupied Austria. Join us as we unfold his heroic deeds and post-war life back in Boston. This interview was recorded on May 22, 2021, in Concord, Massachusetts.

Louis Graziano (Master Sergeant, Army) | S1E14

Velocity Studios — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

We hear from Army veteran Master Sergeant Louis Graziano, the last living witness to the German surrender in WWII. From battling on D-Day to preparing the war room for surrender, Louis' war journey and his post-war transition is a tale of endurance, dedication, and belief in the blessings of God. Don't miss the captivating moments of his interaction with a movie star and his life beyond the battleground in the beauty business. This interview was recorded on February 22, 2023, in Thomson, Georgia.

Maurice Bahan (Pilot, B-17, Army Air Corps) | S1E13

Velocity Studios — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode as we delve into the captivating story of Maurice Quay Bahan, an Army Air Corps B-17 pilot. From completing 13 combat missions amidst personal health challenges to utilizing the GI Bill after the war, his life story embodies dedication, resilience, and a timeless love for the skies. And now we hear about his lifetime of adventure and perseverance, both in the air and on the ground. This interview was recorded on November 16, 2022, in Huntsville, Alabama. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Jane Sanford Hall (Navy WAVES) | S1E12

Velocity Studios — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

In this engaging episode, we explore the extraordinary life of Jane Sanford Hall, a Navy WAVES veteran who decoded top-secret messages during WWII, worked with the CIA's precursor in London, and journeyed across the globe from Japan to D.C., eventually finding home in New Hampshire after the war. Jane's story weaves through captivating places and impactful moments in history. This interview was recorded on May 20, 2021, in Center Tuftonboro, New Hampshire. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Lester Schrenk (Sergeant, Army Air Corps) - Part 2 | S1E11

Velocity Studios — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

(Part 2 of 2) Join us as we listen to the incredible tale of B-17 gunner Lester Schrenk, from surviving a plane crash over Denmark and his year-long POW experience, to his poignant journey six decades later back to the crash site. This trip takes an unexpected turn when he not only uncovers parts of his bomber, but also forms a remarkable friendship with Hans Hermann Muller, the German pilot who shot him down. This interview was recorded on October 26, 2022, in Bloomington, Minnesota. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Lester Schrenk (Sergeant, Army Air Corps) - Part 1 | S1E10

Velocity Studios — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

(Part 1 of 2) Join us as we listen to the incredible tale of B-17 gunner Lester Schrenk, from surviving a plane crash over Denmark and his year-long POW experience, to his poignant journey six decades later back to the crash site. This trip takes an unexpected turn when he not only uncovers parts of his bomber, but also forms a remarkable friendship with Hans Hermann Muller, the German pilot who shot him down. This interview was recorded on October 26, 2022, in Bloomington, Minnesota. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Clayton Baum (Technician Fourth Grade, Army) | S1E9

Velocity Studios — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

This episode spotlights the heroic journey of Clayton Baum, a WWII U.S. Army Technician, whose brave service in the 268th Field Artillery Battalion led to his recent knighthood in the Order of the Legion of Honor by France. From landing at Utah Beach post-D-Day to the liberation of France, Baum's saga is a remarkable testament to courage and duty. This interview was recorded on November 19, 2021, at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Ray Lambert (Staff Sergeant, Army) - Part 2 | S1E8

Velocity Studios — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

(Part 2 of 2). In this episode, we honor the extraordinary life and service of Sgt. Ray Lambert, an Army medic who showed bravery in the face of danger during the invasions of North Africa, Sicily, and D-Day. Despite his injuries, Lambert's heroic actions saved numerous lives. His story of valor, for which he received three Purple Hearts and two Silver Stars, offers a profound insight into the resilience and selflessness of a true war hero. This interview was recorded on August 20, 2019, in Seven Lakes, North Carolina. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Ray Lambert (Staff Sergeant, Army) - Part 1 | S1E7

Velocity Studios — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

(Part 1 of 2). In this episode, we honor the extraordinary life and service of Sgt. Ray Lambert, an Army medic who showed bravery in the face of danger during the invasions of North Africa, Sicily, and D-Day. Despite his injuries, Lambert's heroic actions saved numerous lives. His story of valor, for which he received three Purple Hearts and two Silver Stars, offers a profound insight into the resilience and selflessness of a true war hero. This interview was recorded on August 20, 2019, in Seven Lakes, North Carolina. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

William Massey (1st Lieutenant, Army Air Corps) | S1E6

Velocity Studios — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

This episode, listen to the riveting tale of B-17 bomber pilot William Massey who survived being blown out of his flaming aircraft sans parachute and evaded the enemy in France for 76 days. This gripping account from a member of the Army 8th Air Force's 401st Bomb Group illuminates an extraordinary story of survival and determination.The interview was recorded on June 27, 2019, in Pell City Alabama. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Hilman Prestridge (First Infantry Division, Artillery Unit, Amphibious Unit, Army ) | S1E5

Velocity Studios — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700

In this compelling episode, we hear from an extraordinary soldier, Hilman Prestridge, who went from the small town of Lineville, Alabama to become one of the first to storm Omaha Beach on D-Day. His journey from basic field artillery training at Fort Bragg, NC to the rigors of Amphibian School and finally the treacherous water of Normandy is a story of bravery and resilience. The interview was recorded on June 22, 2019, in Pell City, Alabama. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Harold Nelson (Sergeant First Class, Army) | S1E5

Velocity Studios — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0700

We hear from Sergeant First Class Harold Nelson, who was drafted into the U.S. Army at 26 and went on to earn two Purple Hearts and a Silver Star. From the beaches of Normandy to the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, and from Italy to Germany, Harold recounts his extraordinary journey, highlighting the survival skills he and his comrades adopted along the way. This interview was recorded on April 10, 2022, in Denver, Colorado. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Winona Ruth Gunther (Pharmacist’s Mate First Class, Navy W.A.V.E.S.) | S1E3

Velocity Studios — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0700

In this episode, we hear from WWII veteran Winona Ruth Gunther, who valiantly served in the U.S. Naval WAVES, tending to wounded soldiers injured in Guadalcanal. Her captivating stories highlight women's pivotal roles and courage in wartime. This episode was recorded on November 19, 2021, at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Irving Abramson (Private First Class, US 5th Army, 100th Combat Infantry) | S1E2

Velocity Studios — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 00:15:00 -0700

In this episode, we hear moving tales from Private First Class Irving Abramson, a Battle of the Bulge survivor from the 5th Army's 100th Combat Infantry. As he shares his story of survival from a deadly foxhole artillery barrage and a serendipitous encounter with a legendary Hollywood star on an Army train while recovering from traumatic injury, we explore the human spirit's resilience in the face of war. This interview was recorded on October 28, 2022, in Chicago, Illinois. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Hershel “Woody” Williams (Chief Warrant Officer 4, Marine Corps Reserve) | S1E1

Velocity Studios — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0700

In this gripping episode, we spotlight Medal of Honor recipient Hershel "Woody" Williams, lauded for his valor in the Battle of Iwo Jima, manning a flame thrower. Overcoming early enlistment hurdles of being too short, Woody's remarkable journey from a West Virginia dairy farm to receiving accolades from President Truman unveils a tale of bravery and dedication to service. This interview was recorded on April 26, 2021, in Huntington, West Virginia. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.

Portraits of Honor - Trailer

Velocity Studios — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0700

Trailer for the moving podcast series Portraits of Honor that reveals the heroic yet untold stories of World War II veterans. Tune in and honor their timeless heroism. TO DONATE - LINK - https://portraits-of-honor.captivate.fm/donate.