Headshot photo of James K. Overman

Oneida Warrior James K. Overman on racism and rescuing pilots

James K. Overman of Delafield, Wisconsin, is the son of a World War I veteran and raised with a love for aviation. After receiving a draft notice in 1951, a year after graduating high school, Overman opted to enlist in the Air Force to ensure he got to fly planes

Continue reading
Ho-Chunk Nation Warrior Owen C. Mike

Ho-Chunk Warrior Owen C. Mike

This is the story of Ho-Chunk warrior, Owen C. Mike, known as Jąąpwakącąk in the Hoocąk language. A leader of the Buffalo Clan, Ho-Chunk Nation, Mike served in the Vietnam War and received the Silver Star Medal and Bronze Star Medal with valor device for his actions while under fire

Continue reading

Honoring Native American Veterans of Wisconsin

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, we are featuring Native American veterans and their stories from the oral history collection. Native Americans served in the United States military since the Revolutionary War and continue to do so with honor and distinction. Their military experiences vary greatly as you will

Continue reading