John Becker | Veteran Anchor & Reporter

About John Becker

John Becker is a veteran broadcast journalist whose career spans major national and international events. From embedding with U.S. troops in Iraq to anchoring live coverage during the Great Smoky Mountains wildfires, John has brought integrity, empathy, and excellence to every story.

His work includes in-depth reporting on the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the BP oil spill, and the 70th anniversary of D-Day, where he traveled with East Tennessee veterans back to Normandy. His acclaimed "Service & Sacrifice" series highlights the enduring impact of military service on American families.

John’s storytelling extends beyond headlines—he captures the human spirit in moments of crisis, courage, and resilience.

Professional Experience

Anchor

WBIR TV – Knoxville, Tennessee

July 2006 – Present

Field anchor for breaking news and major events including wildfires and weather emergencies
Lead reporter for the award-winning “Service & Sacrifice” series on veterans
Documented return trips to Vietnam and Normandy with American veterans
Provided extensive coverage of Hurricane Katrina aftermath and Gulf Coast recovery

Anchor/Reporter

KGW TV – Portland, Oregon

February 1998 – July 2006

Reported on regional and national breaking news
Conducted live shots during major weather and emergency events
Produced investigative segments on community and environmental issues

Reporter/Anchor

KTKA TV – Topeka, Kansas

March 1996 – February 1998

Covered state politics, education, and public safety
Developed live reporting skills during severe weather coverage

Reporter/Anchor

KQ TV – St. Joseph, Missouri

July 1995 – March 1996

Launched early career in broadcast journalism with daily news reporting
Produced community-focused stories and live segments

Featured Stories & Reels

Iraq War Embed

John embedded with U.S. troops during the Iraq War, delivering frontline reports with depth and humanity.

Watch Reel

Hurricane Katrina

On-the-ground reporting from the Gulf Coast in the aftermath of one of America’s worst natural disasters.

Watch Reel

Facing Ghosts: Return to Vietnam

A powerful journey with Vietnam veterans returning to the country where they fought as teenagers.

Watch Special

Return to Normandy

John traveled with East Tennessee D-Day veterans to France for the 70th anniversary of liberation.

Watch Special

Toxic Homes

Investigative report on environmental hazards affecting families in residential communities.

Watch Report

Border Exposed

In-depth coverage of immigration, security, and humanitarian issues along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Watch Segment

Great Smoky Mountains Wildfires

Field anchoring and live reporting during one of Tennessee’s most devastating wildfire events.

Watch Coverage

BP Oil Spill

Reporting on the environmental and economic impact of the Gulf of Mexico oil disaster.

Watch Report

Frequently Asked Questions

What is John Becker’s most notable reporting?

John is best known for his embedded reporting during the Iraq War, his coverage of Hurricane Katrina, and his award-winning “Service & Sacrifice” series highlighting American veterans.

Has John Becker won any awards?

Yes, John has received multiple journalism awards for investigative reporting, breaking news coverage, and human-interest storytelling throughout his career.

Where has John reported from internationally?

John has reported from Iraq, France (Normandy), Vietnam, and Canada, focusing on military history, veterans, and humanitarian stories.

What network does John Becker work for?

John has been with WBIR-TV in Knoxville, Tennessee since 2006, and previously worked with KGW-TV in Portland, Oregon.

Get in Touch

For media inquiries, speaking engagements, or story collaborations, reach out directly.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 503.720.0317

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