One of the Most Decorated Women in WWII | AMERICAN EXPERIENCE | PBS

Summary

Lillian Kinkela Keil was a highly decorated Air Force nurse who served in World War II and the Korean War, completing over 450 air evacuation missions and never losing a single patient during her service. Her remarkable military career was driven by a desire to help others, inspired by her early observations of nuns caring for people and her passion for nursing. Despite her extraordinary achievements, Keil ultimately prioritized her family, leaving military service when she became pregnant and focusing on being a mother, while maintaining pride in her groundbreaking military contributions. Her life story represents a testament to selfless service, compassion, and the often-unrecognized heroism of women in wartime.