"Scenic Roots" offers conversations that matter in the heart of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley.From the mountains to the river, our conversations are rooted deep within every corner of our community - reflecting who we are, who we were and who we can become.We engage with the news that affects our community, behind and beyond the headlines. We build bridges that span from creators and innovators to storytellers and the outdoors. We focus on our challenges as many communities in one - as we celebrate what inspires us. We resonate with countless voices - in words and spaces, sounds and songs.We are "Scenic Roots."Ray Bassett hosts and produces "Scenic Roots" at WUTC.

In Conversation: Sammy L. Davis and the Medal of Honor

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Sammy L. Davis at the Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Center in Chattanooga - in March 2024.
Kenny Turpen / MOHHC

Sammy L. Davis served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

In 1968, he received the Medal of Honor - this nation’s highest military award for valor - presented to him by President Lyndon B. Johnson at the White House.

Ever seen the movie “Forrest Gump”?

You might recognize footage from Sammy’s award ceremony that - thanks to Hollywood magic - becomes Forrest’s ceremony with LBJ.

Chattanooga is home to the Charles H. Coolidge Medal of Honor Heritage Center - and last week, Sammy visited this city during Medal of Honor Week at the center, where I had the chance to speak with him.

Sammy L. Davis, at right - with Ray Bassett, at left - at the Charles H. Coolidge National Medal of Honor Center in Chattanooga in March 2024.
Kenny Turpen / MOHHC

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Ray is the host and producer of Scenic Roots, Mondays - Thursdays at 3 PM on WUTC.