As a kid, Kimo Williams taught himself guitar as an escape from difficult circumstances. He served in Vietnam and in addition to his regular duties, brought music to his fellow troops in the middle of the jungle, often under fire. After his tour he enrolled in the Berklee College of Music, even though he could barely read music. By graduation, he was a full-fledged composer employing his own innovative techniques writing for orchestra. Williams continued his association with the military both personally and professionally, serving and writing pieces based on his experiences. Outside the symphonic world he’s well known for his work in the Lt. Dan Band for nearly a decade with actor Gary Sinise. On June 6 and 8, the Chicago Sinfonietta will be performing two of his works as part of a program paying tribute to service members. Kimo Williams joins us and we play selections from the work.(Flickr/USASOC News Service)