From the WKVI Archives

Andy Howes

It’s hard to believe, but Vietnam war hero Andy Howes would have celebrated his 62nd birthday today had he lived. Born in Little Rock, Ark., on June 15, 1950, and raised in Knox, Chief Warrant Officer Andy Howes was a copilot on Rattler 91, a Huey helicopter from the 71st Assault Helicopter Co. which was stationed at Chu Lai, South Vietnam.

While on a mission with two other helicopters in November 1970, Rattler 91 lost radio contact and failed to return to base. A search failed to turn up the helicopter or the bodies of the four-member crew. Over the years though, the remains of the pilot and two crewmen were found, but not the remains of Warrant Officer Andy Howes. Through the efforts of POW groups and the United States Government, the search continued for those left behind. Remains that were not identified were returned to Hawaii to await identification.

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From the WKVI Archives

As the Starke County Jail Committee discusses an upgrade today, commissioners Don Thompson, Todd Troike, and Joe Weinberg were talking about an upgrade to the jail 39 years ago.

On June 3, 1973, the commissioners met with James Garman, an architect with M&W, Inc. Also in attendance at the meeting were Sheriff Harold Wyland and Auditor Jack Milner.

Some of the discussion items included whether to consider the feasibility to serve both county and city departments, whether to put a basement in the new building, and space requirements for 30 inmates. They also discussed where to place the drunk tank, interrogation rooms, booking offices, squad room, and laundry room. A brief debate was held regarding whether or not a kitchen was a requirement, and whether or not to add the sheriff’s living quarters onto the jail. Finally, they reviewed neighboring Jasper County Jail estimates that were quoted at $175,000 for cells and $500,000 for the building.

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From the WKVI Archives

It was the biggest graduating class yet from Knox High School. Twenty-six boys and girls received their diplomas on this date back in 1928 donning green and yellow. William Wheeler, one of the graduates, entertained with a violin solo.

Ever wonder the meaning of Maxinkuckee? One account is that it means moccasin, which refers to its shape. If anyone can confirm this, call (574) 772-6241.

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From the WKVI Archives

With Pomp and Circumstance heard as the Francesville graduating class of 1935 climbed the stairs to the school’s stage, few in the audience could have imagined that one of the pupils would go on to be the governor of Indiana, and a President Ronald Reagan cabinet member. On this date in 1935, the man who went on to answer to the nickname “Doc” graduated from Francesville High School.
Otis R. “Doc” Bowen served two terms as governor, from 1972 to 1980, making him the first man to serve two consecutive terms since 1851.

He was the Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Ronald Reagan from 1985-1989.

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From the WKVI Archives

This is the date in 1974 that multiple tornadoes traveled through Indiana. The most devastated town was Monticello where most of the downtown buildings were demolished beyond recognition. Structures in shambles included the White County Courthouse, the First Presbyterian Church and the First National Bank. Another community hard-hit was Thornhope in Pulaski County.

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