William A. Austin Papers
William Austin's memoir A Proud Marine: World War II Veteran Bunk Austin documents his experiences as a Marine beginning with his enlistment on August 31, 1934. The manuscript includes photographs, military records, correspondence, and brief descriptions of the main events of Austin’s service including his participation in battles on Saipan and Tinian. Also included are candid photographs of daily military life and personal remembrances.
Dates
- 2007
Conditions Governing Access
Manuscript and University Archives collections are stored offsite, and a minimum of 24 hours is needed to retrieve these items for use. Researchers interested in consulting any of the collections are advised to contact Special Collections.
Conditions Governing Use
The copyright interests in this collection remain with the creator. For more information, contact the Special Collections Library.
Extent
0.1 Linear Feet
Abstract
This collection contains William Austin's memoir A Proud Marine: World War II Veteran Bunk Austin which documents his experiences as a Marine beginning with his enlistment on August 31, 1934. The manuscript includes photographs, military records, correspondence, and brief descriptions of the main events of Austin’s service including his participation in battles on Saipan and Tinian. Also included are candid photographs of daily military life and personal remembrances.
Biographical/Historical Note
William Albert Austin, nicknamed Bunk, was born to Lucille and Albert Austin on May 8, 1925, in Radford, Virginia. He attended Radford High School and was a member of the Dramatic Club, Student Patrol, Glee Club, and the football team. He enlisted in the Marines on August 31, 1943. After completing boot camp on Parris Island, he was assigned to Battery D, 18th Defense Battalion of the 4th Marine Division. The locations he visited include Saipan, Tinian, Marcus Island, and Guam. He was discharged on May 4, 1946.
Austin married Mary Johnston on December 26, 1948 in Narrows, VA. The couple had three children: Debbie, Donna, and Greg.
Arrangement
This collection consists of a single folder
Previous Citation
This collection was originally listed as MS.1979. It was then listed as CSWS.WWII.3.0017 until receiving its current number.
Acquisition Note
This collection was donated by William Albert Austin on May 28, 2008.
Repository Details
Part of the Betsey B. Creekmore Special Collections and University Archives, University of Tennessee, Knoxville Repository