Remembering the Korean War - 70 years on

[Sunray]

It is 70 years this week since the start of the Korean War.   With the restrictions imposed by the virus, I assume official acts of national remembrance will be minimal.

I had the privilege of serving with some of the old and bold who wore Blue & Yellow and Blue & White ribbons  along with a multi barred GSM.   I have asked Leon's permission to dedicate this thread to their remembrance.   With the exception of the North Irish volunteers, all of the UK regiments would have depended on National Service intake.

If anyone wants to post photographs (family or net) or share family history they are most welcome.  This invite extends not just to the British and Commonwealth family, but the wider United Nations demographic.

In sharing, discussing and learning .....we will remember them.

Thank you.  

[DaveH]

I think the Korean War often tends to be a bit overlooked in the UK as it gets overshadowed by WWII.

Good to remember it and the veterans who served all those years ago.

[Lord Kermit of Birkenhead]

It is a bit of a forgotten war everywhere, probably due to it's proximity to WWII and the stalemated result !

[Ace of Spades]

Since the Dutch also participated in the Korean War and have forgotten about it just as quick I can wholeheartedly agree with your message.
May their sacrifices never be forgotten.

Cheers,
Rob

[Duke Speedy of Leighton]

Good thought gents.
Must paint my South Koreans...

[Techno]

Well said, James !

Cheers - Phil

[Sunray]

Since the Dutch also participated in the Korean War and have forgotten about it just as quick I can wholeheartedly agree with your message.
May their sacrifices never be forgotten.

Cheers,
Rob

Yes, Rob, can't forget "the Cloggies"- the newly raised Regiment Van Heutsz were in the line at Pusan as early as 23 Nov 50. They won a US Presidential Citation.  When the Battalion was finally withdrawn they had lost 120 dead. 

In 2010 they were manning Camp Hadrian at a certain bend on the Helmand River.  But I will leave that story to my cousin's son. 

[Ace of Spades]

The Van Heutz regiment had a somewhat checkered history. During my time in the army (early nineties) they were no more than a pool for the unwilling and the 'not so smart' that were kicked out of other units and only used for guarding baracks and such... When the army returned to being a professional army (when conscription stopped) the regiment luckily got upgraded again to regular standards.

Cheers,
Rob

[Sunray]

Thanks for this Rob.  Fascinating how conscription and voluntary service can impact a unit's character and morale.
But I would argue that an army also needs a raison for their existence.  When the Cold War ended, a lot of former NATO units foundered.  What were they there for?  Why bother staying sharp?   

It is hard to motivate troops in field craft, battle skills, discipline and teamwork if they see no need for these skills during their service.

[fsn]

Ethiopians in Korea

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-19639459
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kagnew_Battalion

[fsn]

Greeks - Spartan Battalion

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_Expeditionary_Force_(Korea)

[fsn]

Australians

[Sunray]

Wow- thanks Nobby.  A stunning montage of evocative images.   Thanks for taking the trouble to source and post.

[fsn]

I'm just warming up!

[fsn]

Royal Marines - lots of US kit but that Green Beret stayed put!

I think some of these photos were used in the creation of the Pendraken range.