HonorAir Knoxville was created in 2007 to take World War II Veterans to Washington DC to experience the Memorial built in their honor. In 2011, the HonorAir mission was expanded to include Korean War Veterans and, in 2015, Vietnam War Veterans. This program is entirely funded by donations and run by volunteers.

There is no cost to the Veteran being honored. Over 4500 East TN Veterans have participated in these flights, but 2026 will see the last of HonorAir. With the final flight 38 on April 8, HonorAir Knoxville will have attempted to honor every WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War Veteran who has expressed a desire to make this journey.

And on this last flight will be Union County’s own Army Vietnam Veteran, Arnold Smallin. Although his Military Operational Specialty was Radio Technician, he found that the Nha Trang, Vietnam base he was stationed at had no need for that service. He was instead trained on the job as a Generator Mechanic. Nha Trang was the center hub for all Allied communications in the area. Arnold did draw live fire while checking on outposts, but he was luckily never hit or injured.

Once back in civilian life, Arnold was employed at ASARCO's mines in Jefferson County. Zinc mining began in Jefferson City around 1854, and Jefferson County is home to 30 underground zinc mines. Zinc is important for galvanization, rubber, paint, dyes, and ceramics, and it is used to make durable parts and is found in our everyday lives. TN was the only place to mine lead-free zinc. Arnold Smallin worked for ASARCO for over 34 years, and he absolutely loved his job: removing loose rock and installing plates to hold it back. But as the US began importing lead-free zinc in 2001, the mine was forced to close. Arnold then worked in maintenance at Koch Foods in Morristown until his retirement.

As Chaplain of the Legion Post 212, Arnold is there for the Vets if anyone needs to talk or to offer prayers. As Chaplain of our Tri-County Honor Guard, he officiates at graveside funerals and participates in military honors for the Veteran. On Sunday evenings, he preaches at the Copper Ridge Missionary Baptist Church.

Arnold’s lovely wife, Brenda, has put up with him for 31 years now! An interesting life. An interesting Veteran. Thank you, Arnold Smallin. We all hope you have a fantastic HonorAir experience in Washington DC on April 8. And thank you for your dedication and service.