WeSalute Awards

CelebVet: Pat Sajak, Wheel of Fortune

Pat Sajak

“Wheel of Fortune” is the number one-rated syndicated show on television. Its star, Pat Sajak, got one of his first tastes of stardom yelling “Good Morning, Vietnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaam!” on a show called The Dawnbusters for Armed Forces Vietnam Radio.

Sajak, a Chicago native, left college to join the Army in what he calls “a burst of patriotism.” His hope was to get to work for Armed Forces Radio. Instead, he was trained as a clerk-typist. Sent to Vietnam as a finance clerk, he wrote to his congressman – and former boss at a small radio station he’d worked at while at college – and was amazed at what a letter from a congressman could do: From October 1968 through January 1, 1970, AFVN was his home.

Again, persistence paid off as he talked his way into a job at a Nashville station, where he worked as an announcer, talk-show host, disc jockey, weatherman. And when Los Angeles’ KNBC was looking for a new weatherman in 1977, he was chosen. Four years later, he was picked by Merv Griffin to replace Chuck Wollery as host of “Wheel of Fortune.”

Not figuring that he’d be with “Wheel” more than a couple of years, he didn’t anticipate that it would become the huge hit it is. He’s now a familiar presence on TV, having hosted several Tournament of Roses parades, a quartet of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parades, and special editions of “College Bowl” and “This Is Your Life.” He’s won three Emmys and a People’s Choice Award.

Image Credit: http://www.yesimright.com/pat-sajak-came-out-of-nowhere-and-destroyed-every-trump-hating-liberal/

Blog Tags:

CelebVet

From Our Member Community

Scott Higgins

Discounts & Benefits

WeSalute: Your Ultimate Back-to-School Resource

The back-to-school season is upon us, and WeSalute is here to ensure you and your family are fully prepared. We understand that this time of year can be hectic and costly, which is why we’ve partnered with a wide range of leading brands to bring you exclusive deals on everything you need. From travel and technology to apparel and school supplies, WeSalute is committed to being there for all our members, from all walks of life.
delivery

Discounts & Benefits

WeSalute Review: Your Ultimate Ship-to-Home Buyers Guide for 2025

As a WeSalute Member, you have access to exclusive savings delivered right to your door. This guide highlights some of the best ship-to-home offers available, whether you're sending a gift, planning your meals, or treating yourself. These exclusive savings are a small way for our partners to thank you for your service, making it easier than ever to enjoy premium products and services from the comfort of your home. Drawing from our 25+ years of experience, here at WeSalute, we're dedicated to helping active duty military, veterans, and their families access valuable savings. If you are new to WeSalute, start by creating a free account to gain access to hundreds of offers and if you want even more benefits, including exclusive discounts you can’t find anywhere else, sign up for WeSalute+ today!

Join Our Community.
 

Yes, Get Me Started