Donald L. Buske
Bio
Donald Buske describes himself as a rebel who’s grateful he enlisted in the Navy in 1951. He reflects on his time in the military with pride, noting that it “straightened me up… I enjoyed every minute of it.” Among his duties as a boiler operator was monitoring smokestacks to ensure clear visibility for planes engaged in combat. Despite knowing little about Korea, his experiences have left him with respect for the Korean people. Reflecting on his service, he emphasizes the lasting value of the lessons learned in the Navy. He believes these lessons shaped his life and feels that every young person would benefit from the discipline of boot camp.
Video Clips
Boilermaker duties
Donald Buske explains his service as a boilermaker on a Navy ship where he operated steam-driven generators to support the Air Patrol around the DMZ. His crew’s mission included ensuring that pilots had a clear view, so one of his roles was to monitor the smokestacks from the bridge. This responsibility allowed him to see several plane crashes, a sight he vividly recalls. Through his work, he contributed to the safety and effectiveness of the patrol missions.
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Knowledge of Korea
Donald Buske recalls that Korea was rarely mentioned during his early years in the service, leaving him unaware of the country through boot camp. He enjoyed his time on the aircraft carriers, though he never actually saw Korea, making the experience feel more like a routine job. Since the war, however, he explains he has developed a strong respect for Koreans he has met, especially through his involvement in the Korean War Veteran’s Association. These interactions have left him with a very positive impression of the Korean people.
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Lessons Learned through Service
Donald Buske reflects on the lasting lessons he gained from his military service—principles he applies daily. He learned to respect others as well as himself, a value he considers essential. Believing in the impact of these experiences, he advocates for every high school graduate to spend a month at boot camp. This time, he argues, would teach young people critical life lessons before they enter the real world.
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