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Jed Boal ReportingWhile Utah troops continue to serve in battle today, 12 Utahns were honored for Veterans' Day for the sacrifices they made in past battles. Jed Boal shares some of their stories.
There's a lot of honor, valor and heroism on stage. Silver Stars, Bronze Stars and Purple Hearts for soldiers, sailors and marines who served in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. The depth of service stuns even to those who served.
William Pastore of Salt Lake was among a dozen Utah Troops who received honorary medallions at the University of Utah ceremony. He says he's amazed by the feats of other honorees.
William Pastore, World War II, Korean War Veteran: "This guy swinging by his hands under a bridge knocking down ordnances. I shot people, and was good at it, but as far as being heroic, nah."
The marine was seriously wounded in the battle on Iwo Jima in March 1945. In the Korean War, Pastore fought Chinese Communist forces in sub-freezing weather at North Korea's Chosin Reservoir and survived a historic fighting withdrawal to the sea.
William Pastore, World War II, Korean War Veteran: "Can you imagine how much history was there?"
Gale Patterson of Salt Lake served in the US Army Air Corps in World War II. He flew B-17 bombers.
Gale Patterson, World War II Veteran: "I love to fly, always have. When I was able to be an aviation cadet, it was my dream come true."
On his 16th mission over enemy territory, his airplane was damaged and he bailed out. Germans captured him and sent him to a POW camp for more than seven months.
Gale Patterson, World War II Veteran: "Came out of it our whole crew. Got back all ten men, safe and sound by June of 1945, so I'm very blessed in that respect."
The mature troops say Veterans Day means more every year as their number fades.
