Kenneth Stanley

Kenneth Stanely is a hidden hero because he was in the U.S. Navy for 8 years, and risked his life in the Korean War. Mr. Stanely, a country boy from Bedford County, said that he went into the Navy at only 20 years old. He first started out in boot camp in Michigan. After boot camp he was stationed in New Orleans, and they put him in the boiler room. He was stationed in several places including Jamaica, Port au Prince, Hawaii, Haiti, and Ireland. Mr. Stanely was put on a small destroyer and was the only one sent to New Orleans from the men who were with him in boot camp.
Mr. Stanley was brave during the Korean War. His ship searched for mines and protected battleships. Mr. Stanley served in a dangerous part of the ship. He worked in the boiler room. If his ship was hit, his chances of survival were little to none. Mr. Stanley said that he did not really think much about going to Korea. “The only time I was scared was when I was put in California and there was a submarine down below them that shot at them,” he said.  

Mr. Stanley was also dedicated and loyal.  He stayed in the Navy for longer than he had to. He stayed eight years instead of the required three. He talked a lot about his fellow sailors. He said he has kept contact with most of the men.  Mr. Stanley said he would be honored to be a hidden hero. He served our country and risked his life with honor. THANK YOU, Mr. Stanley.