I just heard my buddy has left us... Don Knotts was a great American!May God bless his soul! Forgive me while I drown my sorrows. He brought enjoyment to life.
Hey TB, this actually belongs in the Back Room and I will move it there once people have noticed it here for a few days. Also, here is some trivia about Don... some of it well known, some not so well know. Was a Ventriloquist in his early years from out of High School and his doll was named, Danny. Enlisted in the United States Army at age 19. Father of Karen Knotts. Is a member of the fraternity Phi Sigma Kappa. Portrayed Windy Wales on Mutual Radio's "Bobby Benson" (1949-1955). Technically was an Army Reservist for one week. After being inducted for World War II service on June 14, 1943, was assigned to the Army Enlisted Reserve Corps on inactive duty. Reported for active duty one week later, on the 21st of June, and was transfered to active duty status in the Army of the United States. Veteran of the Second World War who was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal (with 4 bronze service stars), Army Good Conduct Medal, Marksman Badge (with Carbine Bar) and Honorable Service Lapel Pin. ???Marksman Badge (with Carbine Bar)??? Looks like he would have been better with a pistol as Barney Fife! :roll: Served in the Army of the United States, under the service number 35 756 363, from June 21, 1943 to January 6, 1946. Discharged in the rank of Technician Grade 5, which was the equivalent of a Corporal. Together with Tom Poston and Louis Nye, he did the recurring "Man on the Street" skits on "The Steve Allen Show" (1956) television program. Attended and graduated from West Virginia University in Morgantown, West Virginia, with a BA in Education graduated 1948 Don was conceived after his parents had already raised other sons. His father had a nervous breakdown at the prospect of raising another child from birth. Older brother "Shadow" died of asthma in 1942. Took an early job plucking chickens for a market when he was told he didn't have a future in acting.
RIP Benard P. Fife. I can look back to my child hood and remember the smiles he put on my face. He was special.
:cry: I was a Don Knotts fan too. He did things the other actors were afraid to try... .............JO'Co
Maybe the best comedy character on TV <t>Mr. Knotts brought to life one of the funniest and most unique characters in the history of TV.</t>
I remember those skits well. Thanks, Tom, for that very interesting collection of information. Nice tribute, TB and guys. Count me in as one who will miss him.