ARIZONA NEWS

One of Arizona’s greatest war heroes turns 98

May 20, 2015, 5:00 AM | Updated: 6:31 am

...

Retired Master Sgt. Charlie Trask is one of the few remaining survivors from World War II. He defended the United States in three of the largest wars in military history.

“I’m glad to be an American, and America is the best country,” Trask said. “I served 23 years in the Air Force.”

Trask also served in the Korean and Vietnam wars. He celebrated his 98th birthday this week with his family and friends.

“I feel pretty good for an old guy,” he said.

Trask’s grandson, Capt. Darrell Wiseman with the Phoenix Fire Department, is proud of his grandfather’s legacy.

“He has told some phenomenal stories over the years, from his first car being a Model T and being honored with the Bronze Star,” Wiseman said.

Trask was awarded the Bronze Star in 1968, and recently he was recognized by the National Guard 91st Civil Support Team.

“To hear his stories is a gift,” Wiseman added.

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Pass it along to the KTAR News team here.

Arizona News

Bridge being built in northern Arizona after 3 children died in area...

Associated Press

Bridge being built in northern Arizona almost 5 years after 3 children died in Tonto Creek

In a Wednesday announcement, Gila County officials said a bridge being built in northern Arizona after three children died in area.

11 minutes ago

Ex-University of Arizona grad student accused of killing professor...

Associated Press

Trial begins for ex-University of Arizona grad student accused of killing professor in 2022

The trial for an ex-University of Arizona grad student accused of fatally shooting a professor in 2022 has officially begun.

1 hour ago

File photo Phoenix police vehicles behind yellow crime scene tape at night....

KTAR.com

Speed a factor in crash that killed 21-year-old motorcycle rider in Phoenix

Speed was a factor in a crash that left a motorcycle rider dead in Phoenix on Tuesday evening, authorities said.

3 hours ago

The Chandler Police Department was involved in a shooting on May 8, 2024. (Chandler Police Photo)...

KTAR.com

Chandler Police Department involved in shooting that left suspect dead

The Chandler Police Department was involved in a shooting on Wednesday afternoon, authorities said.

3 hours ago

Images of I-17 Improvement Project rock blasting operations....

Kevin Stone

Rock blasting completed for I-17 Improvement Project north of metro Phoenix

Crews have completed rock blasting operations to clear the way for the expansion of Interstate 17 north of metro Phoenix.

6 hours ago

Man accused in fatal Phoenix crash from September 2023....

KTAR.com

Man arrested nearly 8 months after Phoenix crash that killed a woman

A man was arrested on Tuesday nearly eight months after a fatal Phoenix crash that killed a woman, authorities said.

7 hours ago

Sponsored Articles

...

Condor Airlines

Condor Airlines can get you smoothly from Phoenix to Frankfurt on new A330-900neo airplane

Adventure Awaits! And there's no better way to experience the vacation of your dreams than traveling with Condor Airlines.

...

Fiesta Bowl Foundation

The 51st annual Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade is excitingly upon us

The 51st annual Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe is upon us! The attraction honors Arizona and the history of the game.

...

Collins Comfort Masters

Avoid a potential emergency and get your home’s heating and furnace safety checked

With the weather getting colder throughout the Valley, the best time to make sure your heating is all up to date is now. 

One of Arizona’s greatest war heroes turns 98