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This section starts out with background of the three year Korean War. Then gives details of each main unit actions from December 1952 through December 1953. Click on desired unit to go directly there. Then hit return to come back here. This site is large so wait each time for the location to load.
For the 2d Infantry Division the Korean War began on 8 July 1950, fifteen days after the North Korean armies invaded South Korea. The division was alerted on this day and within two weeks the first elements of the "Second to None" put to sea.
The 9th Regimental Combat Team landed at Pusan on 31 July, becoming the first combat unit to arrive directly from the United States. The remainder of the Indianhead units began docking at Pusan daily and by 20 August the entire division was on the peninsula. This operation will go down in history as a miracle of organization and transport.
The first days were the darkest for Indianhead Warriors as they were for all United Nations forces fighting in Korea. With the Eighth Army clinging desperately to the Pusan Perimeter it was necessary that early arrivals from the 2d Division be committed piecemeal. Each day as they landed the Warriors were rushed off to the front.
The Indianhead Division was first committed as a unit on 24 August, when it took over defense along the Naktong River Line. Only a few days earlier, the 9th RCT had teamed with the 24th Division and 1st Provisional Marine Brigade to drive the Communists across the river in the same area.
For the first seven days of commitment the division's s front was quiet, but on 31 August the Communists launched a major attack against the 2d Division line. Elements of four North Korean rifle divisions and two armored divisions slammed into the Indianhead front.
The Communist attack was aimed at cutting off the vital Pusan-Teagu supply line at Yongsan. The enemy had initial success that often comes with an attack of this size but it was accompanied by heavy casualties for him. The enemy succeeded in driving a five-mile wedge into the Indianhead line and four of the division' s battalions holding the southern end of the front were cut off. The stage was set for the "Second to None's" first "stand or die" battle of the war.
The division fell back to new positions around the towns of Yongsan and Changnyong and their Indianhead clerks, musicians, orderlies, supply and technical personnel took up rifles and joined the fight as had their predecessors in World War II. The entire 2d Engineer Battalion was committed as infantry during the battle.
For three days and nights savage fighting continued as the Communists threw wave after wave of fanatical attackers against the Indianhead front. Losses in both men and equipment were heavy on both sides, but the 2d Division had held fast and on 4 September the Indianhead Warriors, coupled with the 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, counter-attacked and threw the enemy back from the vital Yongsan-Changnyong road and set up a new defensive line east of the Naktong. After this the the Marines were detached for their eventual landing at Inchon and the Indianhead Division regained two battalions that had been detached to other units. The division continued to beat off minor enemy attacks and seized several key terrain features, which proved valuable for its own forthcoming offensive.
At this point Indianhead Warriors first experienced Korea's monsoonal rains and for fifteen days there was touch and go fighting along the ridges, in the rice paddies, and down the valleys. The Division Artillery fired point blank at the enemy without losing a gun. The 2d Reconnaissance Company fought a magnificent defensive action on the left flank, killing three times its own number in North Koreans. Countless examples of bravery were recorded during these early days of the war and many others were never reported because of the tactical situation at the time.
The 1st Marine Division accompanied by the 7th Infantry Division, made the historic Inchon landing on 15 September and 24 hours later the Second Division along with the rest of the Eighth Army launched a major offensive to break out of the Pusan Perimeter. At first the enemy's resistance was strong, but the Indianhead Division's continual pounding soon had the Communists to their front crumbling and the division rolled northward sweeping over the remains of the once powerful North Korean army. The 38th Regimental Combat Team covered 73 miles in less than 10 hours. The enemy was routed.
By the end of September all organized Communist resistance in South Korea had stopped and the enemy had been left with tens of thousands of casualties. They had left tons of supplies and equipment strewn in the path of their retreat. The Indian-head Division became the first United Nations force to enter the North Korean capital of Pyongyang. This drive was spearheaded by a special "Task Force Indianhead," which was built around Company K, 38th Regiment, units from the 72d Tank Battalion, 2d Reconnaissance company and attached engineer and supporting units.
October was the division's first month of reserve since it had been committed on the Naktong Line in August. Warriors rested, reorganized, re-equipped and trained for the eventual drive to the Yalu.
The presence of Chinese troops in North Korea first appeared in the Divisions s Periodic Intelligence Report on the last day in October. However, little was known at the time of their strength or intentions. The United Nations advance continued in November and the 2d Division reached far north to the Chongchon River. The United Nations attack that was to "end the war" was launched on 24 November. At first the attack was successful, but on the night of 26-27 November, the Chinese Communist Armies swarmed across the Yalu in tens of thousands. A new war had begun.
The swiftness and power of the Chinese attack cut the 2d Division off from the rest of the Eighth Army at Kunu-ri. With the 23d Infantry Regiment and Company A, 72d Tank Battalion as rear guard fighting fiercely on all sides, the division started to break out of the encirclement. The sufferings and hardships that Indianhead Warriors endured during this withdrawal will long be remembered. The bitter cold added to the many miseries as the temperature dropped to 20 below zero and the enemy established an 8000 meter, gun-studded road block between the division and the friendly lines. There was nothing to do but fight it out, and fight the Warriors did.
For the second time in the then five-month old war the Indianhead Division threw every available man into the fight and drove its way through the fiery corridor. Even the division commander, Major General Laurence B. Kaiser, was firing a rifle at the Chinese in the surrounding hills as the Warrior Division ran the gauntlet.
The artillerymen and tankers fired point blank at the enemy. The Air Force struck the hordes of Chinese with a fury unknown before in the war, inflicting staggering casualties and hindering their efforts to press the attack. Finally after many casualties, the Indianhead Division broke out of the Chinese trap and rejoined the rest of the Eighth Army. The withdrawal from Kunuri will go down in the division history as one of its bloodiest battles of all times.
The Chinese Communist drive was slowed in December, but broke out anew in early January as the enemy initiated another general offensive with 18 full divisions. The Chinese made their way back into the capital city of Seoul and, following that, forced the UN on to a line extending from Pyongtaek, well below Seoul on the west coast, northeast to Wonju. It was at Wonju, the right flank of the bulk of the UN forces, that the 2d Division took a stand that was to amaze the world.
The Indianhead Division along with its attached French and Netherlands Battalions stopped the Chinese for the first time since they had entered the war. Starting on 14 February the Reds hit the Indianhead line extending from Wonju to Chipyongni with everything they had. For three days Indianhead Warriors beat back wave after wave of attacking Chinese and then with lightening like swiftness the Division swung from the defensive to the offensive, surprising the enemy and killing hundreds of his soldiers before he was able to recover. The Chinese withdrew their defeated armies.
Maj. Gen. Clark L. Ruffner, Indianhead commander at the time, described the Wonju Battle as the most critical fought by UN forces during the Korean War. The Chinese had been stopped!
On the heels of the Wonju victory the 2d Division, along with the rest of the Eighth Army, began a slow, methodical advance northward with the objective not real estate but Communists. However, while the UN forces cleared up most of South Korea, the Chinese were again massing behind a screen of North Korean forces.
The Chinese launched another massive offensive on 23 April, the brunt of which was not felt by the 2d Division, but before the month was out the Red drive had been slowed and the United Nations lines remained intact although the enemy still maintained a strong potential.
The next major Communist blow came on 16 May and the striking center was aimed at the 2d Infantry Division. For six days the Chinese tried desperately to break up the Indianhead Division. It was the enemy's stated purpose to destroy the "Second to None." Every artillery piece in the division was firing at its highest rate, littering the battlefield with Chinese dead. Still the enemy pressed the attack, but by 22 May the Chinese commanders realized that they had thrown their forces against a stone wall of resistance, and then, whipped and demoralized, they began to withdraw.
A counterattack was ordered by X Corps and within a matter of days the 2d Division turned from a heroic defense to a lashing offense along the Soyang River. The Chinese were caught off-balance, and their stunned armies found themselves reeling before the onslaught. A disorderly retreat was carried out, but not before the Indianhead Division had taken thousands of prisoners and inflicted tens of thousands of casualties on the enemy. It was the worst defeat ever suffered by the Chinese.
For this superior effort in smashing the overwhelming Communist offensive, the Indianhead Division was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, highest decoration the United States can bestow upon a unit. This action will always be remembered as the "May Massacre."
The division's first anniversary in Korea, 31 July 1951, found the "Second to None" stabbing at enemy strong points well north of the 38th parallel while to the east in the vicinity of Kaesong, representatives of the United Nations and of the Communist forces were meeting to discuss the possibility of a truce.
With the opening of armistice negotiations the "Battle of Hills" began. Starting late in August the Indianhead Division engaged in a bitter struggle for "Bloody Ridge." The battle raged for three weeks until on 5 September "Bloody Ridge" fell to the Warriors. However, before the smoke of this battle had cleared, the Indianhead Division again found itself in the middle of one of the most ferocious of all hill battles-"Heartbreak Ridge."
Facing elements of four Communist divisions each of the 2d Division's three regiments took part in the "Heartbreak" battle which lasted over a month. The battle raged back and forth as the enemy clung dasparately to a jagged range near "Bloody Ridge." Maj. Gen. Robert N. Young took command of the division while the battle was still raging on 20 September and he laid the plans for "Operation Touchdown" which eventually enabled the Indianhead Warriors to drive the last Communists units from the crest of "Heartbreak Ridge."
On 20 December the Indianhead Division took over a sector of the front just east of the Iron Triangle. Here, on 28 December, the Thailand Battalion was attached to the 9th Infantry Regiment. The Indianhead Warriors found a "quiet front" but maintained aggressive patrols and managed to kill 8,868 enemy, wound 4,518, and capture 26.
In April, most of the division was committed in the performance of various tasks throughout Korea, with the 38th Infantry Regiment quelling riots of Communist prisoners at KojeDo.
On 4 May General Young ended his tour in Korea and was replaced by Maj. Gen. James C. Fry. In June, at Chong P'yongNi the Warriors established the "2d Infantry Division Friendship Home" to care for children orphaned by the war.
While the division was moving back on line in July the Communists smashed at a key UN outpost, "Old Baldy." Monsoonal rains fell during the next two weeks but elements of the 23d Regiment recaptured the important crest on the night of 31 July-i August 1952.
Again, on 18 September, the Communists hit "Baldy," temporarily wresting it from its 38th Regiment defenders after laying down a monstrous artillery barrage. Two days later the Second retook the hill. It inflicted more than 1,100 enemy casualties in each of the battles of "Baldy."
Evidence of a gigantic enemy buildup in the area had bee.n sighted for some time, so it was no surprise when a regiment of Communists jumped off for "Arrowhead Ridge," a position looming protectively over the historic invasion route to Seoul. In four days, during early October, the 23d Regiment's French Battalion inflicted more than 1500 casualties and refused to give up an inch of the crest. This French stand was praised as a "magnificent defense" by General James Van Fleet, Eighth Army commander.
The next danger spot was on "Pork Chop" and "T-Bone" hills where enemy patrols kept probing positions of the 9th Regiment's Thailand Battalion. Finally, on 10 November, the Communists attempted to seize a portion of the important terrain and the bayonet-wielding Thais beat them off while inflicting heavy losses.
December began with a visit by President-elect Dwight D. Eisenhower during his tour of the Korean Battle zone, and Christmas day found Cardinal Spellman having dinner with the troops.
It was a cold and quiet month until just before midnight of 23 December when the Communists assaulted the 38th Regiment's positions on "T-Bone" Hill. After four hours of savage fighting the attackers were thrown back, ending the last significant Indianhead action of 1952.
Four days later, the Indianhead Division moved into reserve near Uijongbu for a period of training.
January, 1953, was a month of intense training for the Second Infantry Division. New replacements were integrated into the units and trained side by side with the veterans of "Baldy," "Arrowhead" and "T-Bone."
On January 28th, the Indianhead Division initiated relief of the 1st British Commonwealth Division and assumed control of the sector on Line Jamestown, 30 January.
The 2d Division Artillery remained in support of the 1st ROK Division while the Commonwealth Artillery remained in position and, for the first time in its history, directly supported an American unit, the Second Infantry Division.
The 38th Regiment moved into position in the vital "Hook" sector with the 9th Regiment on the right in the "Little Gibraltar" area. During February, the division maintained an aggressive patrol system and devoted a great amount of time and effort to improving defensive positions.
On the morning of March 17th, the Chinese launched a heavy attack with two reinforced companies against 9th Regiment positions on "Little Gibraltar." After an eight-hour see-saw battle in which hundreds of the Chinese were killed or wounded, the enemy withdrew.
On April 8th, the 2d Division moved into reserve at PupYoung-Ni, and on 25 April 10,000 Warriors attended the second annual Indianhead field day and celebrated the 2d Division's 1,000th day in Korea.
After three weeks of training, the division moved into blocking positions on the Kansas line in preparation for a possible "May Day Push" by the Chinese Communists. During this operation, on 4 May, Major General W.L. Barriger took over command of the 2d Division from General Fry.
The May Day threat failed to materialize and on 5 May the division moved into reserve for a period of training.
On the 11th of June, while attending a USO show, Heavy Mortar Company, 23d Infantry Regiment, was alerted and moved on line in support of the 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Division, behind Outpost Harry and, nine days later the 23d Infantry Regiment relieved elements of the 3d Division in the Chorwon Sector. By the 14th of July, the division had completely taken over from the Third. With the 187th Regimental Combat Team attached, and Second Division Artillery back in direct support, the Second Division defended a 30,000 yard front between the Chorwon and Kumwha valleys. During the next two weeks, enemy probes and large-scale attacks were repulsed on Outposts Tom, Dick and Harry. Heavy massed artillery fire by twelve battalions annihilated hundreds of the enemy during their assault on the "Boomerang."
During the last weeks of July, a large enemy buildup was reported in front of the Indianhead Division but never materialized, for on 27 July, a truce was signed.
The blazing battlefield was replaced by a demilitarized zone and for 72 hours following the signing of the truce, Warriors of the Second Division were engaged in a period of backbreaking labor. Front line positions were dismantled and everything possible was reclaimed as the Second Division salvaged almost 6 million dollars worth of government property. According to the terms of the truce, the Indianhead Division moved back 2000 meters and there established its defenses. Patrols, communications, manned weapons, limiting points were once again set up in preparation for anything the future might hold. New positions were built and dug and every Warrior remained on the alert knowing the enemy was still to the front.
Training and education played a big role in the life of 2d Division soldiers during the months of August and September, with many new Special Service activities provided for off-duty hours. On the 6th day of August, Warriors greeted Henry Cabot Lodge, United States representative to the United Nations, who delivered a message of thanks to UN units from President Eisenhower for their accomplishments in Korea, and, on 9 August, stood at attention as Secretary of the Army Robert T. Stevens toured the division.
During the month of October, training and education continued with University of California instructors and facilities provided to bolster the learning program.
Warriors assembled in their smartest dress to bid farewell to General Mark Clark on 3 October and again on 23 October as the French battalion departed.
On October 26th, the Second Division celebrated its 36th birthday and at the height of an impressive ceremony was awarded the Korean Presidential Unit Citation by President Syngman Rhee "for extraordinary valor in combat."
Parkas and "Mickey Mouse" boots became familiar during the month of November as the division trained and prepared for winter. On 14 November Warriors from all units participated in a review in honor of Vice President Richard M. Nixon.
Winterization continued during December and preparations for Christmas Day began. On 23 December, Bishop William C. Martin, President of the National Council of Churches, visited the division and assisted in the dedication services of the new Ivanhoe chapel. Armed Forces Assistance To Korea was initiated and Korean children, besieged by war for over three years, were visited by Santa Claus, and their eyes grew big as they received the many presents made possible by the men of the Second Division.
Christmas Day, for the first time in three years, found the big guns mute and the individual soldier, without the apprehension of battle, offering a prayer of thanksgiving that the fighting was ended.
Francis Cardinal Spellman visited the division Christmas morning and celebrated mass at Manchu Field before 2000 Warriors and Admiral Arthur W. Radford, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff attended religious services at the 38th Infantry Regiment.
As the year 1953 faded, the Warriors of the Second Division, alert and well-trained, were prepared for whatever the future might hold.
Formed for the fourth time in 1855, the 9th "Manchu" Infantry Regiment has seen service in all its country's wars for the past 154 years. Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, Atlanta, Chattanooga, Little Big Horn, Santiago, Zapote River, Samar, Tientsin-these are a few of the campaign streamers earned by the Ninth. Tientsin gave the regiment its nickname, "Manchu," and it motto, "Keep up the fire !" These words were the last spoken by Col. Emerson H. Liscum, fatally wounded as he led his command into battle.
World War I brought the Manchus new honors. French citations for actions in the Aisne-Marne and Meuse-Argonne sectors gave the regiment the right to wear the French Fourragere. In the second World War, the 9th once again distinguished itself as it moved from Normandy into central Europe. Action in the Ardennes and at Elsenborn Crest earned the Manchus the Belgian Fourragere.
The year 1950 found the Manchus once more fighting in the service of their country. First unit of the 2d Division to arrive in Korea, the men of the 9th added to the fighting history of their unit in the defense of the Naktong River, the breakout and offensive northward until withdrawal at Kunu-ri became necessary due to the intervention of Chinese communist forces. Later, the 9th played an important role in the U.N. 1951 counter-offensive and in the defense of the Chorwon sector.
As the year 1953 came in across the frozen hills of Korea, the 9th Infantry Regiment was in reserve at Pupyong-ni near the Korean capital of Seoul. It had been a long period of steady fighting since the regiment last had a rest in July, and many scarred hills had been fought over by the Manchu Regiment in that time.
Beginning with "Hill 281" and "Arrowhead Ridge" during the hot rainy summer months of 1952 and continuing on to "Old Baldy," "Pork Chop," "Bullseye" and "T-Bone" as the chill of approaching winter slowly hardened the ground into iron, the men of the 9th had stood up well in the struggle against weather, terrain and the enemy. Enemy probes of outguards, constant patrolling, and several large-scale raids had been the regiment's lot, as the bitter cold and snow, parkas and "Mickey Mouse" boots became familiar along the MLR.
On 28 December, the 9th was relieved in the "Baldy-Pork Chop" area by the 32d Infantry of the 7th Division. The first few days at Pupyong-ni were occupied with preparation for the training program that was scheduled to begin on the 5th of January. The training program began with basic military subjects, such as map reading, small unit tactics, use of the compass, foot marches, and soon included attack and defense problems on the snowy hills, made more realistic by the rattle of machine guns and the crump-crump of the mortars. In the latter half of the fourth week, training was discontinued and the unit was alerted to relieve elements of the British Commonwealth Division.
The 9th went back on line on 29 January. In the regimental sector, the 1st Battalion was on the left, the 2d Battalion on the right in the "Little Gibraltar" sector, and the 3d Battalion occupied the center of the line. Relief of the Commonwealth forces was completed on 30 January.
For the first two weeks there was little activity except for the steady exchange of artillery and mortar fire and patrolling in "no-man's land." During the early morning of February 13th, with E company providing the attacking force, a reinforced platoon was sent out to raid the enemy on "Hill 220." The raiders moved though the outguard at 0430 hours with support elements in the lead. Passing to the left of "Alice Spring" (see map) the support group set up a defense perimeter on the Mungadoi Diggings while the main body passed through them toward their objective. At 0515, just as the lead elements of the raiders reached their objective, they were spotted by an enemy guard. A single warning scream broke the silence and echoed across the valley to the friendly lines. Then all hell broke loose as each gun on the MLR opened fire in support of the attackers, and the raiders surged forward into the enemy position yelling and shooting as they advanced. As quickly as they had hit it was over and the raiders were withdrawing to their own lines. Soon only the distant rumble of exploding shells broke the silence as the patrol worked its way back toward friendly lines in the first grey light of dawn and another day.
February 13th was also the date that the "Little Tigers" of the Thailand Battalion relieved the 1st Battalion in the left sector. Their program of aggressive patrolling and alert defense brought to mind earlier exploits on "Pork-Chop" and "T-Bone." The third day on line a ranger "sweep patrol" made contact with a strong enemy force that pushed them back to within two-hundred yards of the friendly lines. Reinforced by the regular outguard in the area and later by a special patrol, the Thai-landers stopped the Chinese cold and forced them to withdraw.
The center sector exploded during the early morning of February 18th. A twelve-man K company patrol, returning from an uneventful sweep of the valley encountered four dozing Chinese blocking the trail less than two-hundred yards from friendly lines. Hoping to catch a prisoner, the patrol immediately deployed in a skirmish line and began a sweep up the narrow steepsided finger. Almost at once a fire-fight started with both sides throwing hand grenades and exchanging blasts of automatic weapons fire at close range. The enemy force, an estimated platoon, decided to go home using both sides of the finger as an escape route, while the friendly patrol began an aggressive push up the right half on the finger, resulting in a deadlock. The enemy now held both the high ground to the front and the reverse side of the finger on the left; a frozen mine field blocked the right flank. With no other way open, a successful withdrawal was made through the mine field. At dawn a special patrol of volunteers from I and K companies returned to the scene of the action and with the help of tank fire, inflicted additional casualties on enemy stragglers still in the area.
K company's predilection for making contact with the enemy came to the fore again the next night when a patrol was ambushed by a large Chinese force in the "Bowling Alley." The enemy engaged the main body from behind the cover of a small rise at the foot of the hill, and then attempted to swing a flank group around the rear of the friendly patrol. The enemy flanking group made contact with the patrol support enroute to assist the main body. A sustained fire fight ensued, slowly dying down until only silent shadowy figures could be seen groping in the contact area. The alert group several hundred yards to the left had also made contact at the entrance to I company's mine gap and subsequently withdrew to the MLR. Sometime later, part of the support group withdrew to the MLR, joined forces with the alert group and returned down through the I company mine gap, encountering the enemy just before midnight. At dawn a special sweep patrol was organized to sweep the finger in front of I company. Numerous casualties were inflicted on enemy troops before the patrol withdrew under cover of colored smoke grenades dropped by a small liaison plane.
The regimental Tank Company, relegated to a mobile and fixed-position artillery role by the static nature of the campaign, stepped into the spotlight on the 25th and 26th of February. On each of these days, Tank Company moved boldly into the valley between "Little Gibraltar" and "John" and proceeded to bombard both "John" and its satellite finger "Dog" with murderous short range fire from the 76mm main armament and every machine gun on the tanks. A total of 775 rounds of high exbunkers on the enemy strongpoints.
On the 1st of March, the enemy launched his first major attack in the regimental sector. Shortly after supper, a thunderous barrage of artillery and mortar rounds started to fall on E company's positions on the low left finger of "Little Gibraltar," and fifteen minutes later an enemy force estimated as battalion sized pushed in the outguard. Storming through its own falling mortar and artillery fire, the enemy then swept up into the left flank of the 2d platoon positions of the company. A period of confused and vicious hand-to-hand fighting took place with the enemy and the men of E company inextricably mixed in the trenches. Then elements of E company, combined with elements of A company under the personal command of Lt. Col. Harry A. Clark, launched a counter-attack that succeeded in throwing the Chinese from the position. The enemy was pinched between the counter-attack and the artillery that was falling on its escape route toward "John." Over 50 percent of the enemy's original attack force of approximately 500 were estimated to have become casualties in the battle.
The next day was moving day for the 9th Regiment. The 1st Battalion, which had been in regimental reserve, relieved the 3d Battalion in the center. A, B and C companies took up positions on "210," "159," and "Pinpoint," respectively. Meanwhile, E and G companies exchanged positions on "Little Gibraltar." The Thailanders in the left secter of the regiment and F company on the right flank of the "355" hill mass remained in their positions.
The 5th of March marked the date of another contact by men of the 2d Battalion. At 2130 hours, a 15-man ambush patrol from E company was hit hard by a strong force of Chinese near "Pukka Spur" in front of "Little Gibraltar." Greatly outnumbered and in danger of encirclement, the patrol wihdrew to friendly lines. A special reinforced patrol was organized and at 2300 located about 50 enemy in the area of the previous clash. Again the enemy attempted an encirclement but a silent withdrawal by the friendly patrol caused both groups of Chinese to smash head on into each other and a 15-minute fire fight resulted between the enemy forces. Friendly troops then withdrew to the MLR.
The nights of the 12th and 13th of March saw a typical action by two special units of the regiment. An F company patrol was returning from a sweep of the valley in front of its positions when it became ensnared in an uncharted minefield. Unable to move for fear of setting off the deadly devices, the patrol sent out a call for help. A combined group of mine specialists from the 2d Battalion Pioneer and Ammo platoon and regimental Anti-Tank and Mine Platoon came to the aid of the trapped patrol. Feeling their way slowly around in the dark, utilizing bayonets and mine detectors, the mine specialists marked out a safe lane through the area and the patrol was able to withdraw to the safety of friendly lines.
The relief of the 2d Battalion by the 3d on "Little Gibraltar" commenced on the night of the 16th, with I replacing F company on the right, K relieving E company in the center and L taking over G company's positions on the left finger. The first two changes in the earlier part of the evening went without incident. But as the elements of L company came up the reverse slope trenches to relieve G, a strong enemy force poured over the forward slope, breaking through the main battle position on the left finger of the hill. A storm of fire greeted the relieving elements of L company trying to move forward into the position. In the confused battle that ensued, elements of G and L companies played a murderous game of hide and seek in the bunkers and trenches with the enemy whose strength was later estimated as that of a reinforced battalion. The 2d and 3d Battalions then threw every available fighting man into the welter of flying grenades and small arms fire. As a cold dawn broke over the furious fighting, the Chinese who drove in fully intending to stay, had been thrown out, and while retreating, suffered additional casualties from heavy artillery and mortar fire covering the withdrawal route. Enemy casualties were estimated at 500, and one of the worst jobs in the clean-up that followed was the removal of the broken and battered human wreckage. The 9th had not emerged from its hour of trial unscathed but it had avenged every friendly casualty with the destruction of a numerically superior enemy assault force.
Enemy probes of outguards continued on the nights of the 24th, 25th and 26th of March. But the Chinese were stymied as the 9th was alert and ready for their stabs.
On the 2d of April, C company sent out a small patrol in the vicinity of "Pinpoint Hill," which engaged a numerically superior foe approaching its position. Battling furiously until its ammunition was nearly exhausted, it made a fighting withdrawal, continuing to inflict casualties until it was back in its own MLR.
On the 6th of April, the relief of the regiment by the Commonwealth 28th Brigade began. By now, the spring thaw had begun to loosen the frozen ground. Bunkers were leaking and in some cases even collapsing, and the trenches were rapidly becoming a sea of red mud of glue-like consistency and incredible depth. The relief of the Manchus was completed early in the morning of 9 April when the last Commonwealth units came up "Little Gibraltar" to replace the 3d Battalion.
The first days after the regiment closed back into its old January reserve area at Pupyong-ni were devoted to resting and re-equipping, with training resuming on the 14th of April. With the division changing from I Corps to IX Corps on 27 April, the Manchus started improving the positions on the Kansas Line. Command post exercise, large problems such as "Trainer Three," individual training in basic military subjects and combat specialties, unit training in various phases of tactics and employment of offensive and defensive fire, occupied most of the time through May, June and early July. An exception was the 3d Battalion, sent on the 4th of May to relieve the 160th Infantry of the 40th Division in the Sangdong-Yongwol area with responsibility for the security of the tungsten and coal mines in that region. While there, the battalion was able to carry on a limited training program, rotating the rifle companies in the battalion between the Yongwol area and the main battalion location which remained with the rest of the regiment in IX Corps reserve. On 28 June, the 3d Battalion task force in the Sangdong-Yongwol area was relieved by a task force from the 1st Battalion which took over the security mission until it was, in turn, relieved by a task force from the 7th Infantry Regiment of the 3d Division on the 13th of July.
The regiment was again alerted for tactical committment on the 13th of July, with instructions to relieve elements of the 7th Infantry, 3D Division in the "Boomerang" sector. The regiment moved out from the reserve area on the 14th of July and reached its new positions on the same night. The Thais were assigned the left sector, the 2d Battalion the center, and the 3d Battalion the right flank of the "Boomerang" where it tied in with the 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team.
On the 16th of July, the first action took place in the regiment since the occupation of the new sector. F and G companies began receiving enemy small arms and artillery fire along main battle positions at 0235. The fire continued to come until 0400 but, altbough the line was fully alert for a possible enemy probe, there was no physical or short-range contact. Again the following night, F and G companies were subjected to heavy artilllery and small arms fire. Shortly after midnight, enemy forces hit both companies but were driven off.
L company, holding one of the most dangerous positions in the "Boomerang" sector, was hit on the afternoon of the 17th by two companies of enemy troops. After an hour-long fight; the enemy was driven off without having reached the friendly battle positions.
Early in the morning of the 18th, the entire 3d Battalion was hit by a heavy enemy artillery and mortar barrage and at 0320 an estimated 600 enemy troops assaulted the L company positions. For over an hour, waves of Chinese beat against the position, only to melt away in the face of unerring fire from artillery, mortars, grenades, machine guns and rifles. Only a handful of attackers reached the trenches and they were wiped out in vicious hand-to-hand fighting. The enemy had been badly hurt and never again returned to test the fighting ability of the 9th Infantry Regiment.
On the evening of July 27th the rumble of artillery slowly died away and after 2200 hours only an unnatural silence covered the land, broken by an occasional "guess I'll hit the sack" from weary fighting men along the line. An armistice had been signed.
Following "Operation Pullback," the men of the 9th began to establish new main battle positions, a project entailing the digging of new bunkers and communications trenches and the stringing of many miles of new barbed wire. Outposts were manned at all times, and the enemy's movements kept under constant surveillance. New recruits were given at least two weeks of refresher basic before being integrated into existing units.
With more free time, Manchumen turned to their TI&E officers; USAFI enrollment boomed. One thousand twelve men, through classroom work and testing, were graduated from the basic category and credited with intermediate status. Football, basketball, and boxing tournaments were set up. The 9th's touch football team carried off the 2d Division championship and went on to the IX Corps tourney.
An elaborate winterization program was initiated. Service Company turned out a record number of wooden tent kits-in record time. Pot-bellied stoves were installed in all tents, and the troops were issued wool winter clothing, parkas, and Mickey Mouse boots.
A recreation program centering about the construction of a 20-Quonset Recreation Center just opposite Manchu Field got underway, lauched with a quonset-building contest won by A and B Companies of the 1st Battalion. Special Services assembled a soldier show that toured the regiment.
On Christmas Day the Manchu Warriors got a full-scale traditional Christmas dinner, complete with turkey, and packages from home were eagerly opened.
On 26 December, the second anniversary of the Thai Battalion's attachment to the division, Major General W. L. Barriger spoke to Thai troops at a celebration at the battalion CP, commending them for their impressive combat record and stressing the ties that bind Thailand and America together.
With New Year's Eve came the end of an eventful year.
In 1861 a new regiment was born. From its earliest beginnings in the Civil War down to the present, the 23d Infantry Regiment has had a colorful and eventful history. Though its structure has changed and the personnel making up its ranks have come and gone, the 23d has built a tradition for itself that lives on. Its past achievements, handed down to the succeeding men who have fought under her colors, make a standard to uphold, a tradition to continue, and an organization of which to be proud.
Names familiar to the 23d Warriors of yesteryear, such as Manassas, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Petersburg, and Little Big Horn, have given place to the more recent battles of World Wars I and II -- Lorraine, Aisne, Ile de France, St. Mihiel, and Meuse-Argonne in the First, then Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Ardennes-Alsace in the Second.
As these battles in turn pass into memory, new ones, growing out of the Korean conflict, have taken their place. From the breakthrough in September, 1950, to the rearguard action at Kunu-ri in December of the same year; from Wonju's Twin Tunnels to Chipyong-ni; from "Bloody" and "Hearbreak" Ridges to "Old Baldy" and "Arrowhead," the 23d has proved itself worthy of the highest place in military annals of the United States Army.
At Chipyong-ni, the 23d, with its attached French Battalion, withstood the frenzied, determined attacks of four Chinese Communist divisions and thus halted the Chinese offensive that threatened to engulf the entire Eighth Army. For this heroic stand the 23d Infantry Regiment received the Distinguished Unit Citation.
The latest chapter in the history of the 23d covers the period
from 1 January 1953 to 31 December 1953, the Regiment's third
year in Korea. Much of this period was spent guarding prisoners
of war at Koje-do and Cheju-do Islands and in active training
in reserve areas. But the closing days of the war found
the 23d again manning front line positions.
On 4 January 1953 the 23d, minus its French Battalion, departed from Camp Casey for the prisoner of war enclosures on Koje-do and Cheju-do Islands, located off the southern coast of Korea. Turbulent with riots and insubordination a few weeks before the arrival of the 23d, the compounds were still seething with unrest. The PW's were constantly causing incidents embarrassing to the United Nations, such as throwing stones at the guards or taunting them with insults. Constant vigilance was required to quell all riots or disturbances that might have occurred.
With long hours of guard on lonely block houses surrounding the compounds, the 23d Tomahawks had little time for relaxation. Living barracks had to be built, and PW road repair details had to be provided with escort guards.
The occasional incidents of PW's walking around outside their huts at night, a practice strictly forbidden, demanded the continuous attention of the guards. It did not take long for "Chung-gee" (halt) to become a common expression for the Warnor as well as for his KATUSA cohort. Prisoner bed checks required walking through the compounds unarmed at night. Occassional shakedowns of the compounds revealed the savage ingenuity of the Chinese captives. A wide variety of weapons were fashioned by the prisoners out of every bit of material available. Homemade knives made from canteen cup handles were uncovered; spear heads shaped from fifty-five gallon drums and corrugated roofing were brought from hiding; punches and chisels hammered out of nails were found. Other items, such as home brewed sake made out of fermented rice, and red star insignias made from beer cans and GI overcoat buttons, were discovered. Ink they manufactured from carbon paper and pills. These shakedowns revealed the prisoners ingenuity on a lighter side as well. Crude, but remarkable, musical instruments were devised from a couple of pieces of scrap wood and a few stray strands of wire.
Recalcitrant prisoners were not the only aggravation with which
the Tomahawk warriors had to contend. Piercing winds, whipping
across the open island at forty to fifty miles per hour, combined
with the cold, sleet, and rain, showed little consideration to
the 23d Tomahawks. "Mickey-Mouse" boots, snug parkas,
and the fur lined pile caps barely sufficed to keep out the bitter
cold.
On 21 March 1953, the 23d was relieved of its security mission at the prisoner of war enclosures. With the identification markings on its vehicles blacked out and the arm insignia of its men concealed, the 23d boarded LST's and was at sea by the 23d day of the month.
Debarking at Inchon, the 23d moved northward into the Commonwealth sector and set up in Division reserve behind the Jamestown line. The regiment's three heavy mortar platoons moved forward in support of the 9th, 38th, and the French, who were already on line. The Intelligence and Reconaissance platoon moved into a blocking position. On 1 April the 2d Battalion relieved the French on Line Jamestown.
This period on line was marked by limited ground action, most of which took place at night. The regiment sent out nine patrols with no enemy contacts reported. Counter-attack plans were drawn up in event of an enemy penetration of the friendly MLR. The "Hook" and "Little Gibraltar," names hitherto of little significance to the Tomahawks, took on new importance. Out of Panmunjom came new reports of an impending truce. As in the past, these reports proved premature.
On 7 April, apparently in anticipation of a friendly relief, an estimated enemy platoon hit one of George company's out-guards. A five-minute firefight ensued. Combining an attack of hand grenades with PPSH or "burp gun" fire, the Chinese overwhelmed the outguard. The following night another George company outguard was hit. The outguard's listening devices picked up the enemy fifty yards away. The Chinese immediately began firing. The outguard returned the fire and cut down the first wave of attackers, only to be overrun by the second wave. The enemy withdrew as swiftly as he had come. The Chinese suffered at least fifteen KIA's in the two engagements.
On 9 April the 2d Division was relieved by the Commonwealth Division and the 23d moved into I Corps reserve at Camp Casey, five miles north of Ui-jongbu. During the following two months the 23d was to participate in two blocking operations, the first on the Wyoming line and the second on the Kansas Line. In between these operations the 23d participated in the annual Division Track and Field Meet and captured team honors for the second straight year.
This was an appropriate present for Colonel Joseph W. Stilwell, Jr., the regimental commander, who was due for rotation. Colonel Stilwell was succeeded by Colonel Chester Dahlen.
On 4 May the 23d, along with the 9th and the 38th, assumed the mission of IX Corps reserve at Chipo-ri, where it was to remain in active training until it relieved the 15th Infantry Regiment in the Chorwon sector in the middle of June.
The first blocking operation, conducted on the central front along the Wyoming line, was in anticipation of a possible Communist attack on "May Day." The 23d traveled from Camp Casey to the Wyoming line via boxcar. From the commanding terrain of the Wyoming line, the 23d Infantryman could look down upon "Arrowhead Ridge," a short distance to his front, or on "Whitehorse," farther to the east. For the new replacement this was his first taste of war. From behind Hill 281 (Arrowhead) the artillery was booming out its cannonades. Beyond Hill 281 the jets could be seen pasting the North Korean hill masses with rockets, five-hundred pound bombs, and the much-feared napalm. Though a bit bewildered at first, the replacement did not take long to find his bearing and soon pitched into the job at hand with the best of the veterans. Communication trenches were dug, individual fighting positions built and "Abe lincoln" bunkers erected. KSC "chogying" parties, keeping step by chanting some Korean folk song, gave a hand by carrying bunker logs up the steep slopes.
The operation on the Kansas line was simliar to that on the Wyoming. Defensive positions were improved. New communication trenches were cut through sand-stone. Sand bags by the thousands were filled. Many will remember the storm clouds that blew in out of the Yellow Sea and the descending rains striking the tops of the pup tents, and the occasional drenching of their occupants, if they were unfortunate enough to have punctures in the roofs of their tents. Many will recall the rice paddies in the valleys below, where "Papa-San," chanting to his trusty bull, performed the age old ritual of spring plowing. Or "Mama-San," with her baby strapped papoose fashion to her back, trudging along some dusty road, with a heavy load balanced precariously atop her head. And the little "lobster clawed" craw-fish that scuttled across the rice paddies, or the cuckoo birds and the plume pheasants, the storks, even the occasional mule deer that was rash enough to venture into the encampments.
Completing its mission on the Kansas line, the 23d moved on to Chipo-Ri where it began an intensive seven weeks training program. Emphasis was placed on individual and small unit training, battle drill and night patrolling. Words such as dispersion, all round security, cover and concealment, and fire and movement became familiar everyday expressions. Squad, platoon, company, and battalion sized tactics in all phases of the attack, the defense, the withdrawal, and raid were stressed. Hills were assaulted, defensive positions dug. The 23d Warrior put in long hours and was often weary from his exertions. Then there were the air raid alerts at night, which interrupted one's sleep, and the "bed-check Charlies" headed for Seoul. A short distance to the north the 23d could watch the nightly fireworks along the 3d Division sector, the flares lighting up its front, and the deadly VT bursting over the enemy's positions. It would not be long before the Warriors of the 23d would be up there also.
On 11 June, while most of its men were attending a USO Show, Heavy Mortar company received orders to move to a f or-ward area and furnish fire support to the 3d Infantry Division. In less than than one hour the company, with its weapons and personnel, loaded on its organic vehicles, cleared its training area and departed for the front. That night and for succeeding nights, in hastily prepared positions behind "Outpost Harry," the 4.2 mortarmen played a big part in halting the large scale Chinese attacks against the beleagured outpost. As many as 6,000 CCF troops were reported involved at one time in the action against ''Outpost Harry.
The first night on position the heavy mortarmen expended almost 2,000 rounds. In between fire missions and the incoming rounds, construction was pushed on ammunition and living bunkers. Within one short week, the mortarmen transformed their position into a well-fortified one.
On 19 June the 3d Battalion departed its reserve area at Chipo-ri and moved forward to relieve elements of the 5th RCT, who were holding down positions in the 3d Division sector on the right hand side of the Chorwon Valley. During the three following weeks the 23d Infantry Regiment relieved the other units to the right of the 3d Battalion. The French Battalion moved into position immediately to the right of the 3d Battalion. The 2d Battalion, which had been in blocking position behind the 3d Battalion, relieved the 3d on 4 July. The 1st Battalion, which had been improving positions on the Wyoming line behind the MLR, moved forward to relieve the Greek Expeditionary Forces in and around "Outpost Harry." In the meantime, Heavy Mortar company had returned to the regimental control with its three platoons moving into supporting positions behind the three battalions on line.
The front line was made up of two distinct lines: the Main Battle Positions and immediately to its front the Outpost Battle Positions. Three key outposts lay across the 23d front: "Outpost Tom," "Outpost Dick," and "Outpost Harry." "Outpost Tom" fronted the 3d Battalion sector (later the 2d Battalion); "Outpost Dcik" was an extension of the French Battalion's MLR; and, farther to the right, "Outpost Harry" jutted out in front of the 1st Battalion. Barbed wire entanglements, trip flares, and mine fields acted as a buffer between the enemy and friendly positions. Safe lanes through the mine fields permitted passage of friendly patrols out of and into friendly positions.
The front was generally in a static condition with sporadic enemy probes striking the strong point outposts. An agressive daylight and night patrolling program enabled the 23d to dominate the ground forward of its positions. This provided the security necessary to maintain the regimental front. Well over one hundred patrols were run. Some of the patrols were of the ambush type, others consisted of three or four-man daylight reconnaissances. Though contacts with the enemy were infrequent, those that were made proved bloody.
On 8 July a 2d Battalion patrol was fired upon by an estimated fifteen enemy. Small arms fire was returned and artillery and mortar fire was directed against the enemy. On 10 July an enemy probe, following close on the heels of its own bombardment of well over five hundred mortar rounds, hit "Outpost Dick" but was quickly dispersed. On 17 July an estimated enemy force of sixty men engaged George company on "Outpost Tom." The enemy hurled grenades into the communication trenches and sprayed the outpost with "burp gun" fire. The friendly forces repelled the attackers by directing mortar, small arms, and artillery fires against them. Friendly machinegun fire cut down several of the attackers. The enemy, carrying most of his dead and wounded with him, withdrew in disorder. When a combat patrol swept the area, four enemy KIA's were found and one wounded prisoner taken. "Outpost Harry" also received one probe during this period. On a later date a French listening post engaged an unknown number of enemy and withdrew, bringing two enemy KIA's with them.
Considerable enemy mortar, light artillery, and sniper fire was encountered by the 23d troops. These were answered with our own counter-mortar and counter-artillery fires.
Much of the time on line was spent improving fighting positions and cleaning equipment. Old bunkers had to be reinforced with vertical supports and waterproofed, and new ones had to be constructed. Communication wire was continuously being broken, keeping wiremen busy splicing the two broken ends together. Due to the obstructing hill masses, radio reception was not always the best and demanded the constant attention of the radio repairmen.
On 23 July the Regimental Tank company made a bold raid into the valley in front of "Outpost Dick" to strike at predetermined targets on "Jackson Heights" and "Iron Horse." With three maneuvering tanks leading, backed up by four tanks guarding their avenue of withdrawal, the tankers struck deep into enemy territory. With their high velocity guns blazing, they caught the enemy completely by surprise. Four enemy bunkers were put into a state of permanent disrepair and two more were seriously damaged. The tankers were also credited with eight enemy killed and one recoiless rifle destroyed. After completing their mission, the tanks withdrew in good order.
In the following days a large enemy buildup was noted to the front of the 23d positions. However, the anticipated large scale enemy attack never materialized for at 1000 hours on the morning of 27 July a truce was signed at Panmunjom. At 2200 hours that night more than three years of continuous warfare came to a close.
Under the provisions of the truce, within seventy-two hours following the cease fire, our forces were to drop back 2100 meters from their former advanced positions. During this seventy-two hour period, the 23d executed a vast dismantling, salvaging, and pulling-back operation. Bunkers were torn down and sand bags emptied. Ammunition and weapons of all descriptions were removed from forward positions and relocated in new defensive positions farther to the rear. Armored personnel carriers and two and one-half ton trucks were kept busy around the clock hauling the material to rear areas. All available manpower and transportation was utilized for this operation.
A short distance to the north the Chinese, hitherto strictly nocturnal animals, poured out of their bunkers and caves by the hundreds and clustered in small groups along the skyline. On "Jackson Heights" and "Hill 317," situated just to the north of "Outpost Tom," and on "Star" and "North Star," a short distance from "Outpost Harry," the Chinese could be seen eating rations and waving across to the 23d troops. A few hours before the 23d was receiving sniper and mortar fire from these same troops.
By the close of the seventy-two hour period, the old front was deserted. Gone was the booming of the artillery and the rattle of the machine guns. The chirp of the cricket amidst the rubble of war, the croak of the frog from the security of his rain-filled bomb crater, and the hum of the mosquito going about his daily business of looking for a meal: These remained. The season of the cicada had arrived, as its "buzz-saw" trill pierced the uncertain quiet.
A new phase for the Tomahawk Warriors had begun. The rain of our fire on enemy positions had come to a halt, but the period of constant vigilance was at hand.
In the early days of the truce the men of the 23d rapidly completed the job of dismantling bunkers and other fortifications in the demilitarized zone. Particular caution was urged because of the many booby trap devices attached to the defenses.
As the work proceeded, increased security patrols were established to watch for a possible communist breakthrough, but all was quiet.
July passed into August and the building up of the Tomahawk fighting machine continued. Barbed wire barricades were set up in addition to road blocks to add security to the new defense perimeter.
The steel pot could now be exchanged-at least at times- for the characteristic soft cap. A new period of intensive training was beginning for the men of the 23d.
Along with military preparedness, emphasis was placed on educational courses for the men. The recreational program of the regiment also was revised to coincide with the new atmosphere that now cloaked Korea.
As the leaves began to fall heralding the coming of autumn, the rumbling of the war clouds in Indo-China grew louder.
Finally on 10 October 1953, the first elements of the French Battalion departed for the new war zone.
The French, officially attached to the 23d Regiment, had fought courageously during their Korean service and earned themselves the respect and admiration of all who served beside them.
Soon after the French departed to continue the struggle against world communism, Colonel Chester A. Dahlen, the regimental commander, was succeeded by Colonel Hughes L. Ash.
Several weeks after assuming command, the officers of the regiment had a sterling silver punch bowl fashioned with the regimental crest. One of the colonel's first official acts was to send it to the French Battalion as a token of esteem from the regiment it had served so well.
A new regimental chapel was erected, standing unadorned in majestic simplicity against Korean hills. Its 14 1/8 foot spire was reported to be the tallest of any Army chapel in Korea.
In the final weeks of 1953, a coffee and donut shop was opened in the 23d to lend another touch of home to the Tomahawk Regiment. An increased Special Services program was also in operation and the morale was unusually high.
The Tomahawks, who have been through it and experienced the climbs up the steep hills and survived the hail of enemy fire, have a bond of understanding that will not be discarded with the passing years.They have given worthy service to their country, as well as to the other free nations of the world. They standas witnesses to the cause for which they fought.
Though other units have held the designation 38th Infantry, the present 38th "Rock of the Maine" Infantry Regiment traces its history to activation 1 June 1917. Assigned to the 3d Division in October, 1917, the Regiment earned its nickname for its stand on the Maine River, 15 July 1918. Aisne, St. Mihiel, MeuseArgonne: these were other names familiar to the Marnemen of World War I.
In 1939 the 38th left the 3d Division to join its present parent unit, the 2d Infantry Division. With the 2d it saw service in the liberation of France and Belgium and the defeat of Germany. Campaign streamers for Normandy, Northern France, Rhine-land, Ardennes-Alsace and Central Europe trace the regiment's path through Europe.
Combat duty in Korea for the 38th Infantry began soon after docking in Pusan on 19 Auguust 1950. The 38th took up positions along the Naktong River defense line. In the United Nations offensive the following month, the regiment forced a river crossing and expanded its bridgehead to the town of Chogye. A record-smashing sprint followed in the succeeding days. The regiment raced 23 miles in one day to capture Kochang and two days later raced 73 miles northward to Chonju. Advances continued by great strides until the Chinese entry into the war in November, 1950.
Withdrawing into South Korea with the rest of the Eighth Army, the 38th helped defend the area around Wonju. In May, the regiment distinguished itself against hordes of enemy by. holding its ground near the Soyang River. The 38th saw continuous action in the 1951 summer offensive, and in the fall and winter pushed back the Communists at "Bloody" and "Heartbreak" Ridges.
The early part of 1952 found the Marnemen holding down a sector just west of Kumwha. In April, the 38th was dispatched to Koje-do island to perform prison guard duties at the United Nations prisoner-of-war compounds there. Riots were quelled in May and under the direction of General Haydon L. Boatner, formerly of the 2d Division, the prisoner compounds were reorganized and the large, unwieldy groups of prisoners were broken up. In August, 1952, the 38th relieved the hard-hit 23d Regiment on famous "Old Baldy" and on "Pork Chop Hill" to the east of Baldy. September found the regiment under attack by Chinese in their attempt to regain the strategic position, but the 38th held fast, keeping "Baldy" under its control. Late in December, just as the regiment was ready to be relieved by elements of the 7th Division, "Outpost Arsenal" was heavily attacked by the enemy, but once ogain the men of the 38th drove them back in their last engagement of 1952. Fighting alongside the 38th in Korea was the battalion-size Netherlands Detachment. This group of hard-bitten volunteers won great respect every time they entered combat.
During the first part of January, 1953, the regiment was under operational control of the 7th Division as division reserve. At this time the regiment was located at Camp Indianhead conducting an extensive training program. On the 17th of January, the regiment reverted to the control of the 2d Division and completed movement to Camp Casey, another reserve area.
The training program during the reserve period consisted of small unit tactics with emphasis on teamwork and control, utilizing battle drill as a basis; familiarization firing; cold weather indoctrination; specialist training; and physical conditioning.
The program was interrupted by the movement to a new reserve area and the participation in "Operation Sweep" for unauthorized indigenous personnel. The training was very satisfactory and was instrumental in increasing the efficiency of the regiment.
On the 20th of January, the "Rock of the Maine" received orders to prepare to go back "on line." Strictly controlled reconnaissance parties were dispatched to the British Commonwealth Division sector and preparations were made for the relief. Great emphasis was placed on security measures which were completely effective and resulted in a successful relief without any unusual incidents. On the 28th of January the relief was completed and the Marnemen were again set to uphold their "Second to None" reputation. The few remaining days of the month were spent in strengthening the left sector of "The Hook" and on an aggressive patrol program. Some of the difficulties encountered were below-zero weather, frozen terrain, construction of bunkers, and the under-strength of units. But these obstacles were overcome by the aggressiveness and determination of the men of the 38th.
The regiment was directly supported by the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery. The support rendered by this command was highly effective and the coordination and cooperation at all levels was superb.
During the month of Febuary the regiment continued an active defense and improvement of the Jamestown Line. It was evident early in the month that an all-out effort must be placed on the construction of bunkers and on increasing the fighting strength in the critical "Hook" sector. The direct support engineer company was attached to the 2d Battalion on the "Hook" and an additional Korean Service Corps unit was provided for improving and strengthening these positions. L Company, the 81mm mortar platoon, and the heavy machinegun platoon from the 3d Battalion were attached to the 2d Battalion in this area.
In the meantime, the Netherlands Battalion on the right side of Samichon Valley was also improving positions and conducting a continuous patrol program. The improvement of defensive positions included a tactical fence across the Samichon Valley between the 2d Battalion and the Netherlands detachment. This wire obstacle was twenty feet wide, approximately six feet high, and consisted of concertina and "tanglefoot" installed between two straight fences. This was surveyed in to insure that tanks could fire along the fence from both battalion sectors. In addition, tanks mounting searchlights were positioned so as to light the area in front of the fence.
The first action of any size occurred the night of 7 February, when an estimated enemy platoon engaged a friendly patrol from D company, Netherlands Battalion. The friendly patrol employed small arms, automatic weapons, mortars and artillery which proved too much for the enemy force. After inflicting an estimated 25 casualties, the friendly patrol disengaged and returned to our lines suffering only minor casualties. Due to the peculiarity of the terrain in this sector, it was difficult to establish and maintain an adequate patrol system. With the system of outguards requiring a considerable number of men each night from the frontline battalions, and the high priority on defense construction, it was necessary to utilize the reserve battalions and the 2d Reconnaissance company to support the patrol effort. The enemy was quite aggressive and daring in his patrolling during this period, but he found the 38th more than a match for anything he attempted.
On 12 February, the 3d Battalion relieved the 2d Battalion on the "Hook." E and H Companies of the 2d were attached to the 3d Battalion. With the attachment of these additional companies the critical "Hook" sector was strengthened considerably.
On the 13th of February, enemy artillery and mortar fire had been falling in "The Hook" area sporadically, but between the hours of 2100 and 2300, it increased sharply until an estimated 3000 rounds had fallen. During this period, a patrol from the 2d Reconnaissance Company consisting of 20 men in support and maneuver groups were engaged by approximately 60 enemy. The friendly force called for mortar and artillery fire to break up the enemy concentration. The tremendous firepower employed by the patrol tore the attackers to shreds and after a 15-minute fire-fight, the enemy withdrew. On their return to friendly lines, the patrol was engaged once more; this time by an estimated 20 Chinese. After a 10-minute exchange of fire, the enemy force broke contact and pulled back toward their own lines. Friendly artillery was called in and few of the enemy escaped unhurt. Chinese dead numbered fifteen and about twenty were wounded.
A friendly patrol from C Company, Netherlands Detachment engaged an estimated ten Chinese on 21 February. The Chinese employed small arms and automatic weapons in an attempt to overrun the patrol, but they ran into a stone wall of automatic weapons fire. Completely disorganized, the Chinese broke and made for the cover of their own lines. Screening patrols froom the friendly lines brought back three enemy dead.
The 38th Regiment continued sending strong patrols out on the "Warsaw" feature. One such patrol from G Company, of platoon size, engaged an estimated 180 enemy on the night of 23 February. The friendly patrol called for artillery and mortar fire and the accuracy of this fire wrought havoc on the enemy. After a one-hour fire-fight, the friendly patrol disengaged and returned to their own lines. Counted enemy casualties included forty dead and ten wounded.
During the month of February, three "tank shoots" were conducted, all with excellent results. Moving out under cover of smoke, "Rock of the Maine" tankers fanned the valley and drove under the noses of the Chinese Communists to start their work. Coordinated mortar and artillery fire rocked enemy observation posts while the tanks rumbled over frozen rice paddies into position and aimed their blazing guns at the enemy. Spitting tons of explosives on the shell-torn hills, the tankers leveled Red fighting positions, wiped out communication trenches, and scored direct hits on supply positions and troop emplacement areas. The hills were blotted out with smoke from the first minute the tanks opened up until they left and, destruction caused by the tanks took the Reds many months to repair.
On 1 March, the 1st Battalion relieved the 3d Battalion on the "Hook" sector. It was evident that the fighting strength should be increased in this sector so the firepower available to the 1st Battalion included the entire Heavy Mortar company, the 81mm mortar platoon, and the 75mm recoileses rifle platoon of the 3d Battalion. All fires were controlled from the Battalion Fire Support Coordination Center which enabled the battalion to mass maximum fire on any target in a minimum of time.
Shortly after dark on 3 March, the "Hook" area started receiving heavy mixed mortar and artillery fire which lasted until approximately 2200 hours. A friendly outguard of eight men from A company on "Warsaw" was engaged and overrun by a Chinese platoon. Almost immediately another friendly force was sent out to engage the enemy and after a ten-minute fire-fight, the enemy withdrew.
On the night of 21 March, a recon patrol from F Company was engaged by approximately fifty Chinese. Aggressive action on the part of the patrol completely routed the enemy. The Chinese suffered an estimated twenty-five casualties in this engagement. At the same time a combat patrol from E Company engaged a reinforced Chinese company. The friendly patrol was reinforced with an additional 33 men and drove the enemy from the top of "Warsaw" in the fire-fight which lasted until 2230 hours. At 2300 hours the enemy struck again. Superior firepower and the rugged determination of the Marnemen kept the enemy from making any progress and the enemy again withdrew at 0300 hours. This action was climaxed with a dawn attack by a reinforced friendly platoon with prearranged supporting fires, including smoke. It was a brilliantly executed action completely clearing the "Warsaw" feature of enemy and recovering friendly casualties wounded during the night. Chinese casualties included 25 counted dead, 25 estimated dead and 60 estimated wounded with one prisoner captured.
This successful stand was the last action of any significance for the 38th in the "Hook" sector. The 29th British Brigade of the Commonwealth Division began relieving the regiment on the 7th of April and the "Rock of the Maine," now commanded by Colonel Stephen Fuqua, began a move to bivouac areas in Corps reserve.
The period from 10 April to 30 June found the regiment conducting a vigorous and aggressive training program. On 21 April the regiment took part in a training exercise called Ever-ready George, occupying Line Kansas with three battalions on line and one in reserve. Passive air defense measures were stressed during the exercise, resulting in excellent dispersal and camouflage of command posts and other installations.
Upon completion of this exercise, the regiment completed a foot march to the area vacated by the 27th Infantry Regiment at Yami-ri. The 38th started a five week training program, with stress being placed on the tactical training of units. Training problems were effectively planned and conducted, and a high standard of efficiency was reached. Unit problems, when the terrain allowed, were conducted with live ammunition and maximum participation of supporting weapons. In addition to unit training, command inspections, parades and athletics were included in the program to develop spirit, discipline and morale of the individual soldier. On the 11th of June, Heavy Mortar Company was attached to the 955th Field Artillery Battalioh and was placed in general support of the 9th Republic of Korea Division. On the 3d of July, the regiment participated in "Operation Skunk Hunt," a sweep of the surrounding hills in an attempt to locate escaped prisoners. In the meantime, the 2d Battalion of the 38th continued the improvement and strengthening of the Wyoming line.
The "Rock of the Maine" returned to the line on 13 July, relieving elements of the 15th and 65th Infantry Regiments of the U.S. 3d Division. Location of the regiment was in the center portion of the 2d Division's defensive line, west of Kumwha. Enemy outposts included the nearby hills known as "Bunker Hill," "Star Hill," "Silver Star Hill," "Monk's Hood Hill," "Hill 528" and "Sugar Loaf." The Chinese main battle position was on the higher ground to the north around "Hill 717" and "Hill 640." The 2d Battalion of the 38th Regiment was situated on the left portion of the regimental front, while the 3d Battalion was on the right side in the sector known as "Parachute Valley." The Netherlands Battalion, minus B company, which was attached to the 2d Battalion, remained in regimental reserve while the 1st Battalion continued the mission of division reserve. The regiment's support-troops included the 38th Field Artillery Battalion, C company of the 2d Engineer Combat Battalion, and 1st platoon, C battery, 82d Anti-Aircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion. In the meantime, Heavy Mortar company had been released from its attachment to the 955th Artillery and reverted to control of the regiment.
On the night of 17 July, it became apparent that the enemy was going to strike. Enemy artillery and mortar fire had been falling in the area throughout the day, and by 1900 hours it had increased sharply. At 2200 an enemy company engaged G company, employing small arms, automatic weapons and artillery. The attackers were caught in a tremendous mortar and artillery barrage and were completely disorganized, suffering an estimated eighty casualties in this action alone. Just prior to midnight, the Chinese struck again in battalion strength, this time in the 3d Battalion sector. The attackers seemed to move up the hill through their own artillery shells. The proximity of I company's position to the Chinese lines helped the enemy achieve surprise, but the efficient defenders quickly organized and engaged the enemy in fierce hand-to-hand combat. A number of enemy swarmed into the outposts' trenches, but after a one-hour fire-fight withdrew. Enemy casualties, which were extremely heavy, included 25 counted dead, 70 estimated killed, 100 wounded, and four prisoners taken. Losses for the 38th were moderate.
A company of the Netherlands detachment relieved I company on the 18th of July and at this time, B company of the Netherlanders reverted to control of their parent unit.
On the 19th of July, the enemy, in two-company strength, hit A company, Netherlands Battalion. One platoon from C company, 2d Engineer Battalion, which was working on A company's positions, joined forces with the Dutch to help repel the attackers. A fierce fire-fight followed with the attackers reaching the trenches in some places. After six hours of fighting, most of which was hand-to-hand, the enemy withdrew leaving the hill strewn with their dead. Enemy casualties numbered over one hundred, with approximately twenty killed.
The 1st Battalion, which had been in division reserve, reverted to control of the regiment on the 20th of July.
These actions proved to be the last engagements of any size for the 38th. On 27 July at 1000 hours, the truce was signed. At 2200 hours of the same day, the ceasefire was effected. The "Rock of the Maine" men were ordered not to fire unless attacked. The Reds, however, wanted to slug it out until the final bell. Round after round came into the 38th's trenches, but each one was returned with deadly accuracy. At 2145 hours, the regiment ordered all shooting to stop. At 2200, despite many warnings, men dashed from their bunkers, shed their "flak" jackets, and stood around in little groups, walking in a no-man's land that was suddenly safe.
Under the provisions of the truce, both sides were to withdraw two kilometers no later than 72 hours after the signing. The Marnemen went to work immediately. Heavy timbers, imported from the United States, were salvaged and trucked to the rear. Camouflage netting, "commo" wire, and barbed wire were rolled up and taken away. For three days roads near the front were churned to dust as hundreds of trucks, moving to and from the front, carted off tons of ammunition, guns, heavy machine-guns, radio equipment, and telephone wire. On the third day, the men donned their flak jackets and steel pots and moved down the scarred slopes from hills they would long remember.
But the time had not yet come when the men could completely relax and forget dangers of war. New main battle positions had to be prepared and the hard-working Marnemen dug bunkers and commo trenches, strung miles of barbed wire and prepared feeder roads in a race to complete the job before the arrival of winter.
Other problems also faced them. The danger of hemorrhagic fever, which is most acute during September, October, and November, had to be met. Rat poisoning, insect killing, and miticiding of clothing programs were instituted to reduce the mite and chigger population, suspected carriers of this Northeast Asiatic disease.
As work on the line neared completion, training activities were also emphasized. The 2d Battalion built a city-like training area complete with permanent type buildings and electricity wherever possible. Fields were cleared for drill, classrooms set up for lectures, and the surrounding Korean hills were adapted for tactical problems.
In an effort to make the winter the most comfortable one ever spent here by American troops, a massive winterization program was started. Assembly line methods were employed to turn out tent kits. Every man was thus assured of living in stove heated tents rather than in the drafty bunkers of previous years. Quonset huts were erected for use as mess halls and TI&E meeting rooms. A complete winter uniform had to be distributed and miticided. This year the men had even better protection against the cold as the launderable, combat practical olive green uniform was introduced in place of the O.D. dress shirt and trousers of the past.
As their part in the Armed Forces Assistance to Korea program, the men of the 38th held a raffle, with special R&Rs, cameras, radios and other worthwhile articles as prizes, to raise their share of the $15,000 Division goal. Christmas parties were also planned where the Marnemen could meet and play Santa Claus to destitute Korean children.
Recreational facilities were constructed. Athletic fields, dayrooms, and movie theaters rose alongside the training grounds. Going hand in hand with the more serious instruction, these facilities represented an important part of the post-truce activfties. Division-wide athletic competition found the 38th garnering more than its share of victories. The Dutch carried the Indianhead patch into the IX Corps soccer semi-finals, while the Maine basketeers remained undefeated as the first half of the season ended. Increased library and USAFI facilities were made available, and the PX established branches in each of the battalions.
Alert, well-trained, often studying from a USAFI text, the 38th Regiment's soldiers waited for the New Year, prepared for peace or war, whichever might come.
On 6 August 1950, the 15th Field Artillery Battalion fired the 2d Division Artillery's first round in the Korean conflict. All battalions of the 2d Division Artillery, with the exception of the 15th, ran the gauntlet of the Chinese at Kunuri Pass on the 30th of November, 1950. The rolls of "Operation Big Switch" offer mute testimony to this grim saga.
From that day until 27 July 1953, all the units of the 2d Division Artillery were continuously engaged in combat in the ten Korean campaigns. During these campaigns elements of the 2d Division Artillery supported the 2d Division, 1st ROK Division, 2d ROK Division, 3d Division, 7th Division, 24th Division, 25th Division, IX Corps Artillery, I Corps Artillery and X Corps Artillery.
During the 37 months of the Korean campaign, the 2d Division Artillery fired a total of 2,389,696 rounds of 105mm, and 416,068 rounds of 155mm ammunition, while in the final 12 months of the action, the 82d Anti-Aircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion fired 18,713,802 rounds of caliber .50 ammunition.
On 1 January 1953, as the 2d Division Artillery entered the second phase of the 3d Korean Winter campaign, it was still composed of five battalions: the 12th Field Artillery Battalion, a 155mm howitzer unit, the 15th, the 37th and the 38th Field Artillery Battalions, 105mm howitzer units, and the 82d Anti-Aircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion (Self-Propelled).
The month prior to the opening of this phase of history, saw the units of the 2d Division Artillery pouring defensive fire into the fray on "T-Bone" and, by use of the now famous "flash fires," were able to inflict crippling casualties on the enemy, who, once they had penetrated our defensive perimeters, were unable to withdraw through the intense artillery barrages.
From 1 January to 19 January, 2d Division Artillery, then in position in the I Corps sector along the Imjin River on the western front, had the mission of furnishing artillery support for the 1st Republic of Korea Division. From 20 January to 29 April, they had the mission of reinforcing the fire of the 1st ROK Division Artillery, in support of the 1st ROK Infantry.
The main actions of the month took place on the friendly outpost positions of "Betty" and "Little Non" in the Majon-ri sector. These positions, both situated considerably in front of the main battle positions, were held doggedly against repeated thrusts, probes, and attacks of the enemy by the valiant 1st ROK soldiers. Second Division Artillery is credited, in conjunction with the 1st ROK Division Artillery, with being the major factor contributing to the defeat of the Chinese forces in these actions. Indianhead Division forward observers from the 37th Field Artillery Battalion, in the observation post on "Betty," were instrumental in directing almost continuous fire on the Chinese troops and concentrations on the closely adjoining enemy hills of "Nicky," "Tessie," and "Cavite." The Chinese forces were, in places, a scant 50 yards away from the friendly outposts on "Betty."
On 2 January, an estimated two enemy platoons attacked friendly positions on "Betty" and the adjoining outpost on "Hill 105." The enemy overran the outpost, and as they prepared to attack "Betty',, were reinforced to company strength. All units of the 2d Division Artillery fired the "flash Betty" concentrations for 13 minutes without let-up, and the enemy was forced to withdraw, suffering heavy casualties. A short while later, friendly forces counter-attacked and secured positions on "hill 105." Second Division Artillery expended almost 6,000 rounds in support of this action.
A company of the 1st ROK Infantry Division made a daring daylight raid on 2 January against the Chinese-held hill "Big Non." This raid was known as "Operation Killer" and was supported by elements of the 2d Division Artillery and the 72d Tank Battalion. The attacking friendly company reached its objective after an extremely heavy preparation by the artillery and tanks. They stayed in possession of the hill for almost two hours, systematically destroying communication trenches, bunkers, and other fortifications before withdrawing. The ROK attackers took one prisoner and killed an estimated 60 Chinese, while suffering only light casualties within their own ranks. Credit for the success of the raid was given to the 2d Division Artillery for the role they played in furnishing the preparatory and supporting fire. Ten thousand rounds of 105mm and 155mm, plus 90,000 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition, were fired in support of the action.
Fire planning played an important part in the success of the mission of the 2d Division Artillery. This planning consisted of firing concentrations on anticipated enemy routes of approach. The value of this far-sighted planning was demonstrated time and time again, and many parols returned to friendly territory in good shape because of it.
On the 25th of January, two batteries of the 12th Field Artillery were displaced to forward positions to support the US 7th Infantry Division in an operation on "T-B one." They concentrated on counter-battery targets, and at the successful completion of the mission, returned to the control of their battalion.
Action along the main battle position for the remainder of the month of January consisted of patrol contacts and the normal exchange of artillery and mortar fire. Although there were no major actions attempted by the Chinese during the month of January, intelligence reports indicated that the Communists had taken advantage of the lull in fighting to make a number of changes in troop disposition.
Incoming rounds for the month totaled over 14,000 while the 2d Division Artillery fired 64,000 rounds of 105mm, 7,600 rounds of 155mm, and almost 2,000,000 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition.
February was marked by very little ground action, there being only three attacks by Chinese forces and one raid by 1st ROK Infantrymen. The first Chinese attack of the month came on 1 February, when the enemy sent two platoons against "Betty" and "Hill 105." The 1st ROK Division withdrew from the two hills, and the artillery observer on "Betty" called in "flash fire" on the hill. The flash fires continued steadily for 15 minutes, at which time the enemy withdrew, suffering heavy casualties. "Hill 105" was immediately re-occupied and secured.
The second enemy action of the month came on the night of 16-17 February when the Chinese set up an intense artillery and mortar barrage on friendly positions south of "Hill 317." Several enemy squads and platoons were contacted in front of the MLR and small fire fights ensued. Friendly forces withdrew to the MLR when one of the outposts was overrun. Artillery observers then called in fire on the position, and a beaten enemy withdrew to the north with their ranks greatly thinned.
On the night of 26 February, a third Chinese action occurred when a reinforced enemy company probed positions of the 5th ROK Infantry Regiment. They were driven back after an intense fire fight. Two more enemy platoons made contact with a security patrol, but were forced to withdraw after forward observers called in heavy artillery concentrations. The enemy made three more probes in the sector, but were badly mauled by the 2d Division "flash fires" and retreated each time, leaving the area littered with their dead.
The bitter cold month of February came to a close with a total of 15,000 incoming mortar and artillery rounds, while the 2d Division Artillery blasted over 35,000 rounds of artillery and 500,000 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition toward the enemy.
Early in the morning of 6 March, several large groups of Chinese attacked 1st ROK Division forces in the "Kelly Hill" area and overran a friendly outpost several times. Each time the enemy was driven back after a brief, firce, hand-to-hand struggle supported by the flash fires of the deadly "ring of steel." The Chinese poured 4,550 rounds of mixed mortar and artillery into the sector to support this action, while the 2d Division Artillery expended over 8,000 rounds during the eight hour fight. The friendly casualties were light, but the attackers again lost heavily. The Chinese were feeling the devastating power of the Indianhead artillery.
From the 12th to the 16th of March, the 12th Field Artillery and units of I Corps artillery conducted a very successful "bunker-busting" campaign. Forward observers all along the sector front directed destruction missions against enemy bunkers and positions. During the four-day period, 58 bunkers were destroyed and 13 large secondary explosions observed.
On the 17th of March, G and L companies of the 9th Infantry Regiment were attacked by a reinforced battalion of Chinese Reds on "Little Gibraltar." In support of the defenders, the 37th Field Artillery Battalion fired over 1,000 rounds into the onrushing enemy.
Second Division Artillery supported a friendly attack by the 1st ROK Division soldiers on 21 March when the ROKs raided "Little Italy" in platoon strength. For two hours they remained on the objective engaegd in heavy hand-to-hand fighting, beating off two counter-attacks, destroying 20 bunkers and killing over 100 Chinese before withdrawing. Second Division Artillery fired 5,100 rounds in sustaining this action. "Operation Chick" was put into effect on 25 March when a platoon of the 1st ROK Division raided "Hill 165" with flame-throwers and satchel charges with the purpose of destroying enemy installations. Two squads of enemy troops were pushed off the hill and no attempt was made by the enemy to counterattack during the time the friendly forces remained. Four thousand rounds fired by the 2d Division Artillery helped cover the withdrawal of friendly forces upon completion of their mission.
From 23 March through the end of the month, the 2d Division Artillery supported the 7th Infantry Division in their fighting on "Old Baldy" and "Pork Chop." During this time the 15th Field Artillery, two batteries of the 12th and one battery from the 38th Field Artillery Battalion were employed to cover this sector. A total of 15,000 rounds of 105mm and 155mm ammunition were expended by these units in support of the harassed 7th Division.
The incoming rounds for the month dropped to a daily average of 498 rounds of mixed mortar and artillery, while contacts dropped off considerably. The Second Division fired about 70,000 rounds of artillery and 900,000 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition.
There were only two actions of any significance during the month of April. One of these, a daylight raid by 1st ROK Division troops on 18 April, smashed through enemy defenses on "Little Italy," in much the same manner as they had on 21 March, after an intense artillery and mortar prepartion. This raid was very properly named "Operation Once Again" and the ROK infantry once again held the hill for over an hour during which time they destroyed all fortifications the Chinese had rebuilt.
The second action called "Operation Left Hook" took place early in the morning of 23 April against the Chinese-held "Hill 153." The plucky little South Korean soldiers held the hill for over an hour and destroyed almost every fortification on the position. Second Division Artillery fired over 7,500 rounds in support of the attack.
On the 17th and 18th of April, 2d Division Artillery was again called upon to support the 7th Division Artillery when the enemy made two attacks against "Pork Chop." Over 14,000 rounds were fired into this sector to drive back the hordes of Chinese.
After what was considered an extremely long stay in one position, 2d Division Artillery was once again on the move on 29 April, when they took over the left sector of the Chorwon valley in relief of the 25th Division Artillery. Once again in control of IX Corps, the area was well remembered by many of the veterans of the July-November campaign in 1952. The few days remaining in April were consumed with digging in and improving the new area and the month came to a close with 2d Division Artillery having fired a total of 46,000 rounds of 105mm and 155mm and 1,700,000 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition with a reported 616 enemy casualties inflicted. Incoming rounds dropped to 376 mixed mortar and artillery for each 24-hour period.
While the month of May was almost without action along the front there was evidence of an enemy build-up in several areas. Second Division Artillery, given the task organizing and training the 205th ROK Field Artillery Battalion, sent a skeleton crew of officers and men under he command of Major Lloyd L. Leech, 37th Field Artillery Battalion, to Seoul to assist in the initial organization, drawing of equipment and training of personnel.
Enemy fire dropped to less than 200 rounds per day of mortar and artillery as 2d Division Artillery sent over 86,000 rounds of 105mm and 155mm and 1,000,000 rounds of .50 caliber ammunition into enemy troops and positions, mostly in front of "Arrowhead" and "Whitehorse" accounting for 360 casualties.
The situation, both friendly and enemy, remained static during the month of June and operations generally remained defensive in nature. Ground action was light with three enemy initiated probes taking place on the 11th, 13th and 30th of June. The largest of these actions took place on 13 June when two Chinese companies attacked "Whitehorse" and one company probed "Hill 284." The enemy withdrew when friendly artillery was directed into the center of the attacking force.
When overwhelming numbers of Chinese stormed "Outpost Harry" in the 3d Infantry Division's sector on 12 June, 2d Division Artillery fired in conjunction with the 3d Division Artillery and, with this aid, the 3d Division was able to hold the hill.
The 674th Field Artillery Battalion, attached to the 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team, was further attached to the 2d Division Artillery on 23 June, upon its arrival from Japan. The 205th ROK Field Artillery Battalion, now organized and trained was moved into position as a fourth battery of the 15th Field Artillery Battalion and was issued six 105mm howitzers. Brigadier General John P. Daley, Commanding General of the 2d Division Artillery, departed on 10 June on indefinite temporary duty to become Chief of Staff of Korean Military Armistice Commssion. Colonel Peter Schmick, Executive Officer, assumed command in the absence of General Daley.
From 1 July through 14 July, the 2d Division Artillery continued its mission of direct support of the 2d ROK Division. On 14 July, the 2d Division Artillery relieved the 3d Division Artillery in the Chorwon-Kumwha sector.
During the period 1 July through 14 July, the enemy made several large attacks on "Arrowhead" and succeeded in overrunning the friendly outposts several times but failed in their holding actions. These actions were all preceded by intense artillery and mortar barrages from the Chinese positions along the "500 Ridge."
From 15 July until the Armistice was signed on 27 July, 2d Division Artillery was in direct support of its parent organization for the first time since November, 1952. At various times during the critical month of July, the 674th Airborne Field Artillery Battalion, the 8th, 9th, 10th and 63d Field Artillery Battalions and the 205th ROK Field Artillery Battalion were attached for operational control to the 2d Division Artillery to safeguard this highly strategic position against the hordes of Chinese who were massing along its front.
A battalion-sized attack on the "Boomerang," held by the 9th Infantry Regiment was thrown back after fierce hand to hand fighting in the trenches of the regiment's L company on 16-17 July, but the enemy re-grouped and once again stormed the hill, this time staying in the trenches for 40 minutes before being forced to withdraw with extremely heavy casualties.
Second Division Artillery also fired in support of friendly forces in the 9th ROK Division on the right when they sustained division sized enemy attacks. Thousands of screaming Chinese pouring out of the hills rushed headlong down the valley, though and past friendly concentrations. This breakthrough was slowed and finally stopped with the aid of units of the 2d Division Artillery.
On 27 July, when the truce negotiators at Panmunjom signed their names to the documents that signified an end to the fighting in Korea, the fighting Warriors of the 2d Division Artillery prepared to lay down their arms after nearly three years of fighting. Nothing was changed, however, for twelve hours, until at 2200 hours on the same day, the fighting ceased and an unearthly silence ebbed across the war-torn front, pierced occasionally by a jubilant shout from a war weary soldier. There was no outburst of celebration, but rather a feeling of uncertainty and tension among the men gathered on the curiously dark and quiet front. The next three days were spent in a harried and frenzied attempt to move or destroy all fortifications along the MLR in preparation for the withdrawal to new positions behind the buffer zone, established by the truce negotiators.
Salvaging everything possible, DivArty moved into new areas and emplaced their guns behind the infantry regiments. During the next few months, positions were built and dug and a vigorous training program was initiated. "Count off," "Call off," became familiar throughout the battalions as the new replacements along side the veterans learned every job in their section.
RSOPs and that Saturday morning inspection once again became familiar to the cannoneers. TI&E and competitive athletics were developed on a large scale and, a strong DivArty basketball team was organized.
As the cold weather approached, winterization programs began. Fatigues were replaced by OG's and quonset huts sprung up throughout the battalion areas.
On 17 December, Warriors of the 2d Division Artillery assembled in their finest dress at Manchu Field to bid farwell to Colonel Schmick, DivArty commander.
Christmas Day, the first peaceful one in three years, found the men of 2d DivArty seated in a warm mess hall enjoying the traditional turkey dinner and all its trimmings.
In the three years of fighting through the bitterly cold winters and torried summers, up snow-clad hills and through muddy rice paddies, living in the grim darkness of bunkers and the relative comfort of tents, eating the choking summer dust and being drenched by the monsoonal rains, the men of the 2d Division Artillery had been a hard hitting arm of the 2d Division. As the year 1953 faded, 2d DivArty, alert and well trained, is prepared for whatever the future might hold.
No two men of the 2d Division will carry away with them the same impressions of Korea and the war. Some experiences were common to all; other experiences left their imprint on only a few. The following are typical: the bumpy roads choked with dust one minute and swimming in mud the next; the long hours of guard in the rain and cold; the careful preparation that goes into a patrol-the blackened faces, the grenades fastened loosely to the cartridge belt for instant use, the rifle grenade flares, the PRC-10's, the last minute checks and the final cigarette; the "sweating out" of the patrol; the employment of stealth while edging across a marshy rice paddy; the snapping of a twig underfoot, and the apprehension this creates; the keyed up nerves and the suspense while waiting in ambush; the cool smoke at the patrol's finish; the "flak" vests; the rubber air mattresses and the sleeping bags; the soupy "commo" trenches ankle deep in mud; the KATUSA's who were "samo-samo" as the GI's; the toting of a BAR or a machine gun up one of the hundreds of steep hills that will never be seen again and then down the other side, with every muscle in an aching body and every throb of a pounding heart protesting each additional step; the topics of conversation, ranging from women to rotation back to women again; C-rations, and the unlucky guy who wound up with corn beef hash; the 101-rations with the free cigarettes and the "Chuckles ;" the flickering candles, and the sputtering Coleman lanterns, whose mantles were dear as gold; the audacious rats scurrying across the bunker floor; the tanks of miticide and the bitter tasting chloroquinine tablets; the rust that would not leave a rifle or bayonet alone; the Saturday inspection in reserve and the jeep or carbine that somehow would not stay clean; the hot, sweltering sun in July, and the February wind that was not so hot; the bathing in streams or in homemade showers; the Korean expressions that caught on, such as "tak-san" and skoshi," or "have-a-no" and "have-a-yes," or "number-one" and "numberten ;" and the expressions not so Korean but still part of the lingo that separated the "short timer" from the "long timer," such as "no sweat" or "got it knocked ;" the helicopters; the search light beams spotlighting the front at night; the 50 caliber tracers streaking across the darkness, and the sharp cracking sound they make as they pass overhead; the dull roar of the incoming round, followed by the explosion; the whistling of the jagged piece of shrapnel through the air, and the thud it makes as it finds a final resting place in the dirt nearby; the wounded litter-bound for Tokyo and possibly "Stateside ;" the fellow next to you or in your squad, who was not so lucky; the KATUSA's quietly singing among themselves on the eve of the truce. These are only a few of the impressions that will be carried away by the men of the 2d Division. They could easily be duplicated by other experiences that come out of the crucible of war.
Committed to action with the 2d Infantry Division early in the Korean War, the 72d Tank Battalion was still manning main battle positions at the cessation of hostilities. Besides the 2d Division, the "Crusader" Battalion supported other United Nations units, including I, IX, and X Corps, the British Commonwealth and many Republic of Korea Divisions. The "Crusaders" were up front and rendered support at the Naktong River line, Kunu-ri, Wonju, Hwachon Reservoir, during the "May Massacre," at "Punch Bowl," on "Bloody" and "Heartbreak Ridges," "Old Baldy," "Big Non," "Little Non," and "Arrowhead Ridge."
In late December, 1952, the 72d moved into positions to support the 1st Republic of Korea Division. While in this sector, the "Crusaders" played a major role by providing direct fire support in many tank-infantry raids and engaging in numerous "tank shoots" against enemy personnel and fortifications. The major offensive action was remembered by the tankers as "Operation Killer," the "Crack Valley Shoot."
"Operation Killer" was launched at 1000 hours, 23 January, with elements of all three "Crusader" combat companies providing mobile, close-in fire support. "Big Nori," a key enemy terrain feature, fell into friendly hands at 1100 hours. The tank task force supported the raid by remaining in "Crack Valley," to the west of "Big Non," firing on the enemy at ranges from 100 to 300 yards. The task force withdrew at 1300 with the knowledge that the tank-infantry operation had been an outstanding success.
On 30 January, B Company returned to the operational control of the 2d Division, which was relieving the 1st British Commonwealth Division. A and C Companies remained in support of the 1st ROK Division on LINE JAMESTOWN. One platoon of B Company supported the French Battalion from 30 January to 29 March, while other elements supplemented the 9th Tank Company, backing up the Thailand Battalion. During March elements of B Company supported the 38th Infantry Regiment.
B Company made one outstanding raid in this area when company tanks moved behind the Chinese main line of resistance. Two platoons took positions at the mouth of the valley southwest of a terrain feature called "Hill Faith." Two tanks then moved up the valley to the rear of "Hill Faith" with the remainder of the platoons furnishing fire support. All tanks received a heavy volume of small arms fire, but after inflicting numerous casualties on the enemy, an orderly withdrawal was accomplished. No friendly casualties resulted from this action.
A Company of the 72d rejoined the 2d Division on 19 March, with C Company moving into the operational control of I Corps. The battalion, minus Company C, remained with the Indianhead Division until 27 March when it moved to join C Company under I Corps, supporting the 1st ROK Division.
The "Crusader" Battalion conducted eleven tank shoots and supported three Infantry raids, inflicting 444 enemy casualties and destroying 2 tanks, 190 weapons, 491 bunkers, and 89 observation posts. This assignment lasted until 16 April, when the 72d was ordered into reserve with the 2d Division.
The reserve period lasted 10 days when the battalion came under the control of IX Corps for the purpose of supporting the 2d Republic of Korea Division. Tank raids were limited in this sector due to many mine fields and weather conditions making mobility almost impossible.
A Company, which relieved C Company on 23 May in the "Whitehorse," "Arrowhead," and "Tank Hill" sector, aided the 2d ROK Division in repelling a battalion-sized enemy attack on two outposts extending in front of "Arrowhead Ridge" during the period 28-30 June. The company had positions which could deliver flanking fire on both the outposts under attack and main enemy avenues of reinforcment. Company A delivered harrassing, interdiction and direct fire on the enemy, and supported the counter-attacks launched by friendly forces. Meanwhile, C Company returned to a reserve area where it carried on a vigorous training program. Emphasis during training was placed on gunnery and marksmanship was perfected on an excellent range, designed and constructed by the 72d Tank Battalion.
With the cessation of hostilities on 27 July the men of the 72d Tank Battalion prepared to depart the MLR for the first time in almost three years of war.
Following the armistice, the 72d began an intensive formal training program, of 26 weeks duration, covering every aspect of tank work. Both individual and group training were emphasized. The "Crusader" Battalion also took charge of instruction given the regimental tank companies and 2d Reconnaissance Company. Each of these units was withdrawn, in turn, to be drilled by the 72d Tank Battalion. At the end of the year, the "Crusaders" remained ready, well-equipped and everlastingly vigilant.
The mission of the 2d Medical Battalion in Korea always has been two-fold; to furnish second echelon medical care to the combat arms of the 2d Infantry Division in action against the enemy, and to provide medical care for all types of illness or injury that occur within the division. The 2d Medical Battalion has been strategically located so that it might afford close support and effectively accomplish its general mission of "Conserving Fighting Strength."
The 2d Medical Battalion is comprised of three separate companies. Ambulance Company provided for the surface evacuation of all casualties. Clearing Company provided the actual medical and technical care and facilities. Headquarters Company performed its normal functions of administration.
Evacuation, the primary duty of Ambulance Company, was accomplished by attaching one ambulance platoon to each of the division's three infantry regiments. Within the regiments, ambulances were assigned to the battalion aid stations. Consequently, patients were evacuated comfortably, promptly, and safely from the forward-most points where they received medical attention. This allowed the regimental medical companies to utilize their litter jeeps forward of the battalion aid stations, and greatly expedited evacuation. When casualty rates were high, ambulance shuttle and relay systems were set up to insure constant ambulance coverage. So close was the ambulance support that on several occasions 2d Medical Battalion ambulances were knocked out by enemy mortar fire. Evacuation of seriously sick and wounded patients to hospitals in the rear was accomplished both by ambulance and by helicopter-ambulance. Well coordinated air and ground evacuation systems were directly responsible for the saving of many lives.
Clearing Company is charged with the receiving and treatment of battle casualties as well as other diseases and injuries. A big part of their job is to differentiate between those patients who can be treated at the battalion and be returned to duty and those who must be sent to rear medical units in order to receive more definitive treatment. During 1953, the battalion handled thousands of cases, some surgical, some medical, and some neuropsychiatric. Expanded facilities enabled Clearing Company to hold many patients and consequently aid in their more rapid return to duty. These facilities included surgical and medical wards, a laboratory, a pharmacy, an eye clinic, and a neuropsychiatric service. The effectiveness of these medical facilities can be told by the large number of those treated who returned to duty.
Another important service of the battalion is dental care. The majority of replacements who came into the division were found to be in need of dental attention. A clinic at the 2d Replacement Company saw to the dental needs of replacements before they were assigned to units, and consequently, man hours were conserved which would have been lost had the men left their parent units at a later date to receive dental care. Each regiment had the services of two excellent dental officers throughout the period of combat operations. The prosthodontist section at the 2d Medical Battalion was capable of providing almost any type of dental service, from the repair of a bridge or plate to the construction of complete upper and lower dentures.
Headquarters Company assured the adequateness of medical service through proper procedures of supply, transportation, administration, operations, intelligence and training.
The battalion consolidated to effect economy in personnel and to provide even more efficient service. More Medical and dental facilities were housed in semi-permanent buildings following the armistice on 27 July, aiding in the care and comfort of the patient. In September, the battalion was awarded the Meritorious Unit Citation with Major General W. L. Barriger, Commanding General of the 2d Infantry Division, making the presentation.
Members of the 2d Medical Battalion can be proud of the knowledge that rapid and complete medical service was available twenty-four hours a day. This knowledge also served a great morale factor for the men who were constantly under enemy fire. The contributions of the 2d Medical Battalion in "Conserving Fighting Strength" will always be remembered by the sick and wounded who profited by their efforts and experience.
The month of January, 1953, found the 2d Engineer Combat Battalion in reserve with the rest of the 2d Infantry Division. During this time they rehabilitated their vehicles and equipment, and undertook a rigorous training program in both engineer and infantry tactics. That knowledge of the latter was necessary had been proven in 1950 when the entire battalion was committed as infantry along the Pusan perimeter.
When the 2d Division moved back up into battle positions in the British Commonwealth sector in late January, the engineers assumed direct support of the infantry regiments. As has been the case so many times in the past, the 2d Engineers worked side by side with the infantry in building up the defense and keeping all routes of supply open. There were minefields to be cleared, barbed wire entaglements to be constructed, and bunkers to be installed. The battalion worked day and night, often under heavy mortar and artillery fire, to accomplish its mission.
A Company, in direct support of the 9th Infantry Regiment, constructed new bunkers and fighting positions on "Little Gibraltar" and Hill 159. During this period, A Company participated in a series of tank raids by the 9th Regiment. Their mission was to make safe lanes through minefields in front of the main battle positions. In March, 1953, when the enemy struck at "Little Gibraltar," A Company, reinforced with a platoon from B Company, moved into blocking positions as infantry. Upon completion of their mission as infantry, A Company resumed their role as engineers.
B Company, during February and March, acted in direct support of the attached French Battalion. They constructed a road to outpost companies for the purpose of carrying supplies and removing wounded. When the front line roads in their sector sustained damage from snow and ice, B Company, often under mortar and artillery fire, dug and repaired communication trenches, built fighting bunkers, and breached minefields for the French. April found the 23d Infantry Regiment back in the line, and B Company resumed its normal direct support role for the regiment and attached French Battalion.
C Company, in direct support of the 38th Infantry Regiment, maintained the front line roads in their sector. However, their greatest achievement was the installation of fortifications on the position known as "The Hook." The men of C Company worked around the clock to complete their assignment. Mortar, artillery and sniper fire were constant hazards but did not detract from the engineers' determination to finish their job.
D Company, in general support of the division, maintained main supply routes to the front line units of the division. They operated a bunker prefabrication site and supplied bunkers to the entire 2d Infantry Division.
Headquarters and Service Company supplied engineer equipment
to the line companies whenever needed. Oftimes they sent heavy
equipment to the front lines to support the engineers of the line
companies. Headquarters and Service Company used the tanks of
its Assault Platoon in direct support of the 9th Infantry Regiment.
During the months of April, May, and most of June, 1953, the 2d
Engineers moved back into reserve with the division. Again they
instituted a rigorous training program and reconditioned their
equipment.
By July, 1953, the engineers were again supporting the 2d Division in the Chorwon-Kunmwha sector. All line companies were engaged in maintaining roads, installing barbed wire and field fortifications. Many times during this period the engineers were exposed to patrol actions of the enemy and heavy mortar, artillery and sniper fire.
During July, a platoon from C Company was caught in an enemy attack while working on barbed wire in front of the Netherlands positions. Falling back to the friendly lines, they poured small arms fire into the ranks of the enemy. The courageous action of these engineers was instrumental in successfully repulsing the enemy.
Companies A, B, and C were engaged in road construction and field fortifications work on the main battle positions. During the closing days of the Korean war, the 2d Engineers worked as engineers during the day and moved into blocking positions as infantry at night.
Immediatly after the armistice, the Engineers set to work completing "Demolition Drive" and Suicide Drive," roads up to the Main Battle Position to be used for ammo and ration supply. Many fighting bunkers and double-apron barbed wire fences were erected by the battalion as they assisted in fortification procedures.
In the fall of 1953, as the Division's winterization program shifted into high gear, the Engineers took an active part by establishing displays and demonstrations of tent kit and quonset hut constructions. By 1 December, over 2.8 million board-feet of lumber and over 370 quonset huts had been processed by the Engineer Battalion.
Meanwhile, the entire battalion maintained its normal activities such as road maintenance and, from 27 July on, reverted to supporting all units of the 2d Division, in accomplishing their newly assigned missions.
Early in the year 1953 the 702d Ordnance Maintenance Company was redesignated the 702d Ordnance Battalion consisting of two "letter companies" and a Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment. Company A forward was so designed as to permit platoons to be detached and live and work in close support of the infantry regiments.
While the two lettered companies performed their mission of Ordnance service to the division, officers of the Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment functioned as staff to the division in the capacities of the Division Ordnance Officer (who is simultaneously Battalion Commander), Division Maintenance Officer, Division Ordnance Supply Officer, and Division Ammunition Officer.
Technicians of the "Seven-O-Deuce" instigated several special projects during the winter and spring of 1953, including adapters for firing rifle grenades from 60mm mortars, jeep powered searchlights, and a hydraulic firing system for anti-aircraft multiple 50's.
In the early summer, Ordnance Supply started out on the enormous task of replacing the World War II type wheeled vehicles with the new M-Series vehicles. At the same time an intensive training program was started to train drivers and organizational mechanics to properly operate and care for these new vehicles.
Instructor-inspector teams were constantly contacting every company and battery in the division to assist and advise on methods of improving the maintenance and operation of Ordnance material.
During the month July, additional units supporting the 2d Infantry Division and assigned to the 702d Ordnance Battalion for Ordnance support almost doubled the normal work load. The "Seven-O-Deuce" responded with typical Ordnance "know how" and expedients and the cease fire order found the 2d Infantry Division almost 100 percent operational.
The battalion continued in its efficient opration throughout
the remainder of the year. "Seven-O-Deuce" also set
up an Officers Preventive Maintenance Training School, whereby
officers of the 2d Division gained invaluable knowledge on the
care of vehicles. Every task was met by the 702d Ordnance Battalion
with a vigor and superior performance that truly was "Second
to None."
Signal Company is charged with the responsibility for all communications from Division to subordinate and adjacent units, supply and maintenance of signal equipment, and photographic coverage of 2d Division activities.
The Company, largest separate company on division level, is composed of many smaller sections, each with its own specific communications task.
In January 1953, with the 2d Division in reserve, the Signal Company began an intensive campaign to get its equipment into shape after five months on line. In addition, schools were opened for communications personnel at regimental and battalion level with classes in message center procedure, field wire and radio. During this period, aerial photographs were taken by the Company's photographic section, and were later put to use successfully by G-2 and G-3 in planning combat operations of the division.
February and March found' the division on line once again, this time in the British Commonwealth sector. Existing communications facilities, installed by the British during their stay, saved some work for the wire section, but many new lines were necessary because of differences in signal requirements between British and American divisions.
In April, May, and June, although in reserve, the Company operated on a 7-day, 24-hour basis. Intensive signal training was undertaken. Jump teams from all sections participated in these command post excecises, which were invaluable aids in the training of personnel involved.
July found the division on line in the sector just to the west of Kumwha. The aggressive actions of the enemy in the weeks prior to the signing of the truce added additional strain to already overburdened signal operations. Many wire teams were assigned to the three infantry regiments to insure maintenance of communications.
With the ending of hostilities on 27 July, Signal Company stepped up its already high-geared salvage program. A continuing project of the company has always been the recovery of wire. This measure of supply economy is adhered to regardless of the tactical situation, and is responsible for the saving of many tax-raised dollars. Thus, the period January through July, 1953, saw the reclamation of 6,000 miles of such wire, valued at approximately $321,600. Additional thousands of dollars worth of battlefield recovered signal equipment was restored to usable condtion by the signal supply section of the company.
Statistics show the amount of work performed by the Signal Company to be impressive. The period January through July saw the stringing of 4,000 miles of field wire. The photographic section flew a total of 54 aerial missions during this period and processed 58,320 finished prints both for tactical and publication purposes.
Following the armistice, 2d Signal re-equipped the entire division with FM radios and continued its economy program. In the latter months of 1953, 1,150 miles of field wire was rehabilitated at a saving of $86,250. Photographic aerial missions continued to play a part in he overall Signal Company program. Thirty such missions were flown, accounting for 7,932 prints.
Thus, in peace or in war, 2d Signal Company constantly maintained its important role in communications and photography for the 2d Infantry Division.
The 2d Reconnaissance Company, the "Eyes and Ears" of the 2d Infantry Division, has had many and varied missions throughout the last months of the Korean action.
During the month of January, a much needed training program was put into operation to train the many replacements received during the preceeding months. At the end of January, the Company left the reserve area at Pup-Yong-ni and moved forward with the division to the "Hook" sector where it was attached to the 38th Infantry Regiment. There the Company was committed as an infantry unit, performing squad and platoon sized patrols to seek information pertaining to enemy activity and deployment. This mission often included ambush or raiding contact with the enemy. In many cases, these patrols encountered stiff enemy opposition, and in several instances, hand to hand fighting. On one occasion, a 2d Reconnaissance Company patrol was credited with stopping a large attack on the forward slope of the "Warsaw" feature. During this period, Recon patrols were active on "Warsaw," "Pheasant," "Betty Grable," and in the Samichon Valley.
In the middle of March, the Company received rush orders to move to the sector held by the 9th Infantry Regiment. Moving with what they could carry on their backs, the men of Recon moved swiftly to "Little Gibraltar" and established blocking positions. When things had quieted down, the Company was given the mission of blocking and patroling the "Bowling Alley," southwest of "Little Gibraltar."
When the division moved into reserve in April, the 2d Reconnaissance Company moved to the Tank Training Center, which had been established for the various tank units of the division.
On the 27th of April, the Company was assigned as Security
Company for IX Corps Headquarters, remaining there until the end
of May. On the 30th of May, Recon moved to another training area
in the vicinity of IX Corps Headquarters.
The Company was alerted for another mission on the 20th of June,
moving into an assembly area to prepare for a blocking mission
in the Chorwon Valley in support of the 23d Infantry Regiment.
Several armored utility vehicles were used to resupply troops
on Outposts "Tom," "Dick," and "Harry"
during late June and early July.
On the 13th of July, the 2d Reconnaissance Company moved to the 38th Regiment sector as a blocking-counterattack force, remaining there until the 16th of July when the Company received orders to move with all possible speed to a blocking position in the hard-hit Kumwha Valley.
Here Recon was attached to the 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team. Several times during this mission, the enemy made strong attacks to smash through the 187th's sector. Recon Company's light tanks, employed so as to fire directly at enemy positions, destroyed many enemy fortifications and caused scores of casualties. The 2d Reconnaissance Company remained in this position until the armistice agreement was signed on 27 July.
After the cease-fire, Recon remained in combat readiness, pulling back for just one month to undergo intensive training. During the period 1 October to 1 November, the 2d Reconnaissance Company moved to the 72d Tank Battalion area, for drill on new light tanks, scouting missions, and rifle and mortar fire. As the year 1953 faded, the men of the 2d Recon Company were manning outpost positions on Artillery Hill keeping a watchful eye to the north.
As the year 1953 unfolded, it revealed the 2d Quartermaster Company continuing to supply in abundant quantities food, clothing and equipment together with shower and laundry facilities that flourished despite the hazards of a Korean winter. Additional problems were met and solved when the relieving of the British Commonwealth Division necessitated long hauls of Quartermaster personnel and equipment over roads that fought back with a potent mixture of slush and ice.
The 2d Quartermaster Company had gained invaluable experience during two previous Korean winters in cold weather logistical support of the division. The "Second to None Trucksters," running their vehicles night and day, maintained an almost unparalleled record for tonnage hauled in the month of January.
Signs of spring were welcomed by the men of the 2d Quartermaster, although they realized that the new season would bring hazards of its own. Hard roads were transformed into lanes of mud. Quartermaster warriors and vehicles were utilized long hours hauling sand gravel for road repairs, storage area foundations, rations and equipment. Spring rains added to the poor road conditions, to further hamper transportation.
In March, the 2d Quartermaster Company handled the turn-in of thousands of tons of winter clothing and equipment with such precision and smoothness that the men were not overburdened by the added work.
May and the signs of summer found Quartermaster handling incoming winter stoves and distributing summer clothing and the protective mosquito nets. Shipments of hydroponic vegetable-head-lettuce, radishes and green onions grown through ultra-modern methods in Japan - were dispatched through Quartermaster to brighten many a meal.
Other responsibilities shouldered by Quartermaster were the utilization of ice-making machines and the operation of regimental shower and laundry units to relieve regimental personnel for other duties. Quartermaster provided 1000 clean sets of clothing per regiment per day in May, and the six one-ton ice-making machines, capable of producing 2000 pounds of ice in 24 hours, provided 252,875 pounds of ice to division units and attached troops.
The increasingly hot weather kept the Field Service Platoon busy. It processed 201,099 pieces of clothing in July, an increase of 400 percent over the 49,106 pieces of clothing handled in March.
When the truce came, the 2d Quartermaster Company, increasing its vigilance by doubling its night guard to avert thievery of Indianhead stores, still presented the competence displayed when the year began.
Then, for the third time in Korea, winterization became the keynote of activity in Quartermaster. Winter equipment, consisting of thermal boots, parkas with liners, pile caps and gloves, was distributed. Oil stoves, too, were provided, as the 2d Quartermaster Company did everything possible to make winter living in 1953 more comfortable.
January 1953 was a month of "watchful waiting" for the 2d Military Police Company. The Division lay in reserve near Pup-Yong-ni. Control of civilians in these rear areas was a never ending job, but the problems for this period were only preparation for the bitter weeks ahead.
Heavy fighting and zero weather descended north of the Imjim River when the 2d Division relieved the Commonwealth Forces. Long, cold hours on bridges, as lonely security guards and axle deep, icy mud over the motor patrol routes made the weary MPs long for their mountain sleeping bags.
Slowly the freezing winter turned to spring and the Division returned to Pup-Yong-ni. The Military Police continued with their mission of controlling traffic, the circulation of civilians, and other phases of police work.
Division Field Day, commemorating 1000 days of service in Korea, saw 10,000 soldiers representing many nations arrive in over 1000 vehicles-traffic and enforcement problems were handled by one reinforced platoon of Military Police.
Through the spring and early summer months, the 2d Military Police company turned out numerous Honor Guards for visiting dignitaries, escorted USO troupes, and operated traffic control posts and motor patrols to maintain mobility within the Division.
The investigations section tirelessly strove to keep thefts and other incidents to a minimum in the division area, and handled many types of traffic and weapons accidents. The stockade continued to be administered as a deterrent to crime as well as a confinement facility for the division.
When the cease-fire came in July, military policemen were immediately utilized to man points of entry into the Demilitarized zone. Coincidentally, plans were made to send motorized patrols into the zone, just south of the demarcation line to make sure that no truce-damaging incidents would occur. In this way, the 2d Military Police Company is ready to do its part in peace as well as in war.
The Chemical Section of the 2d Division has the responsibility of supporting front line troops in matters concerning chemical munitions. Before the signing of the truce, this support consisted primarily in furnishing smoke for screening and covering missions, supplying flame by conventional methods and field expedients, and training of line personnel in use of chemical weapons.
Primary attention was paid to flame warfare. A number of field expedients were developed in an endeavor to increase the effectiveness of this weapon in the hands of the infantryman.
With the cessation of hostilities, a second duty of the Chemical Corps, the training of all Division members in matters relating to Chemical, Biological, and Radiological Warfare, has received increasing emphasis. Plans were formulated for a program designed to instruct the various units in defensive measures in the event of a CBR attack.
The Division chemical officer has the task of supervising all these activities and serving as chemical advisor to the Commanding General.
During the final months of 1953, the section conducted continual technical inspections to keep up-to-date on the. status of equipment.
The aviation section of the 2d Inf Div from the 1st of January 1953 until the Korean Amistice on 27 July 1953 flew 7,849 hours, 3,604 of which were combat time. "Ivanhoe Airlines," as it is often referred to, completed 1,569,00 passenger miles during this period with 1 WIA and 1 MIA and the loss of three aircraft, one of which was shot down in March. The Air Section, under the leadership first of Lieutenant Colonel Conway L. Ellers, then Captain Robert F. Carter, and now Major Jerome B. Feldt made some of the most difficult flying conditions that exist.
This impressive contribution to the Division's overall effort under the "eyes" of the Division were an invaluable asset to G-2, not only reporting what they observed, but recording it dozens of times through photography, often providing low-level pictures of enemy terrain that were unobtainable from any other source. Other Division members benefitted from reconnaissance fights over patrol routes and positions, medical evacuation, wire laying, emergency re-supply, adjustment of artillery and mortar fire, and just plain fast reliable transportation.
Following the armistice, the 2d Aviation Company continued concentrated efforts to keep the men and planes in effective combat readiness. The flyers, weather permitting, have maintained constant surveillance all along the line.
The unit has increased its importance by spreading into new fields. It has established an Air Observers School and has embarked on a project demonstrating the proper methods of message-dropping and pickup to men of the 2d Division. In all respects, the "Air Section" has achieved an enviable record in the tradition that is "Second to None."
Major Charles R. Moorhead commanded the 2d CIC detachment from August, 1952, until he was succeeded by Major Marion N. Morgan on 14 May 1953.
Major Morgan commanded until Captain Walter F. Sterns took over on 21 September. Captain Sterns was in turn succeeded by Major Millard H. Gifford on 6 November.
Under these four commanding officers, the 2d CIC detachment apprehended several enemy agents and line crossers, and successfully prevented the infiltration of the Division sector by the enemy.
The 2d CIC detachment helped keep the personnel of the 2d Infantry Division in a constant state of security consciousness which resulted in the apprehension of numerous unauthorized personnel by units of the Division. Among these personnel, numerous security risks were discovered.
Many investigations of suspected sabotage, breach of security, and espionage were conducted during this period.
The 2d Infantry Division is proud of the fact that no enemy agent has ever been found who entered South Korea through the Indianhead Division sector.
Led by Chief Warrant Officer William R. Trembath and Warrant Officer Junior Grade Albert E. Annoni, the 2d Division band answered calls to perform at all types of military functions. Members of the band also organized small ensembels, visiting various units throughout the division and often accompanying USO Shows to entertain line troops.
During the months of February and March, 1953, the band was with the British Commonwealth Division and was used for military formations and entertainment by that division as well as the 2d Division. During the month of March alone, the band's records show a total of 190 committments fulfilled by the concert and marching bands and the various entertainment ensembels.
An experience all members of the band will remember was the wedding of the unit's Korean barber, to which all the bands-men were invited. A small group was on hand to furnish appropriate music, making an atmosphere of gaiety and goodwill.
During April, the band's high spot of performance was at the Division Field Day as men from all over the Indianhead Division competed for honors in the many athletic events.
Many times, the band traveled to the Division Administration Center to play for rotatees leaving the Division or for their repacements coming in.
When the Division was in reserve, the Indianhead musicians were utilized as honor guards for visiting dignitaries, award and decoration ceremonies and retreat ceremonies, and as small ensembles heard at unit parties or in unit mess halls.
The band proceeded with normal activities, after the cease-fire, such as playing at retreats and unit days. Indianhead musicians formed the nucleus of the massed bands that played at the visits to Korea of Vice President Richard M. Nixon, General Mark W. Clark and General Matthew B. Ridgway. The massed bands were directed by the 2d Division's CWO Trembath. The Indianhead band also played at the Division Unit Day when Syngman Rhee awarded the ROK Presidential Unit Citation to the "Second to None" Division.
Division REAR is comprised of all the main administrative units within the division.
At this "nerve center," formerly known as Division Administration Center, are many of the organizations that are extremely important not only to the Division's combat and administrative efficiency but also to morale and other personnel affairs of its officers and men.
On the administrative side, is the Division Adjutant General's section. Composed of many smaller sections, its importance as the hub of the Division's personnel affairs, and as the Division's "filing cabinet," cannot be overlooked. Every replacement coming into the division is initially assigned by AG's Classification and Assignment section. The Military Personnel department initiates and also puts the final stamp on all changes in personnel status-reassignment, rotation and promotions. The Awards and Decorations section puts into final form all recommendations for awards to men of the Division. The AG Miscellaneous department carries a complete file of all military publications that would be of assistance to anyone seeking correct information about any military regulation or SOP. AG-MD prints all Division special orders and bulletins and keeps on hand a large stock of the many forms needed to operate an infantry division.
Working hand in hand with AG section are the various unit personnel offices of each infantry regiment, the division artillery battalions and the many special troops battalions and separate companies. These offices keep complete and up to date records of every man in their organization. Every change in the man's military status is entered on his records within a few hours after it occurs. All inquiries concerning a man are made through his personnel section.
The big job of paying approximately 20,000 men is ably handled by the forty-four man staff of Division Finance, also located at the "Admin Center." Each month, Finance prepares 119 payrolls which are picked up on the last day of the month by appointed pay agents of each unit in the division. In addition, Finance must keep up to date on the many changes which may affect an individual's pay and allotments. During the course of the month, Finance may make up many extra payrolls for replacements and for men going on R&R to Japan.
Second Replacement Company and the Division Rotation center may fall into either slot-they serve as both administrative and morale factors. At 2d Replacement, all men slated for duty with the 2d Division receive any clothing they may need, haircuts, showers, an opportunity to visit a well-stocked PX, a partial payment and an orientation on the history of their new outfit. Also, a man who has come direct to Korea may receive his long-awaited first letter from home. At Rotation center, a small but hard-working staff of six men handle the large rotation and R&R program for the division. The "Big R" center recently rotated the 50,000th man to leave the 2d Division in its three-year Korean stay, and the 500,000th man in Eighth Army to complete a tour of duty in Korea.
On the morale side are the Division PX Warehouse, with its constant efforts to keep the men of the division well supplied in snacks, watches, cameras and other valuables and comfort items; and the Division Army Post Office, which works around the clock to insure the prompt delivery of that number one morale factor-mail.
A special staff section under G-1, Civil Affairs represents the Division commander in the conduct of relations between the military and the local Korean civil government. Quick to aid and bring comfort to communities in need, the Civil Affairs section stands as the foe of the unscrupulous and the friend and protector of the lawful.
Coordinating with other security agencies, Civil Affairs investigators maintain constant vigilance against questionable civilian political activities, sabotage, and acts of discriminatory or harmful effect upon the military.
The bulk of indigenous personnel employed by the Division are procured through Civil Affairs channels. Another function now being performed by the section is the draft, registration, and military records control of Korean employees of the Division eligible for ROK military service. The Civil Affairs Draft Liaison Office is the coordinating agency for all matters pertaining to the military affairs of Division employees. Instructions received from the ROK government are evaluated and passed on to employing units of the personnel concerned.
But Civil Affairs personnel do not stop with regulating civilian affairs or investigating activities of suspect civilians. Long a trick of the enemy has been the use of liquor and narcotics and the wiles of morally degenerate women to sap the vigor of our fighting forces. The battle against these scourges goes on continually as Civil Affairs, working side by side with Korean Nation Police, brings quick end to these evils as they are discovered. Operating the civilian collecting point, Civil Affairs personnel have processed and evacuated over 3,000 unauthorized civilians apprehended in the division area the past year.
Newcomers to Division Rear are some of the staff sections- Special Services, with its film library and USO Shows, the Judge Advocate General's office, the office of the Division Chaplain, and the Division Inspector General.
On 6 August 1944, a newspaper in the Nation's Capital published a report from a war correspondent with the 2d Infantry Division in Normandy. The first statement made in his column went as follows: Perhaps the most coveted shoulder flash of the AEF in the last war (World War I) was the Indian Head of the 2d Division. . ." Seven years later, on 29 May 1951, another military writer, for a different Washington newspaper, wrote as follows: "With an outstanding record of achievement in two World Wars, the INDIANHEAD DIVISION five times has matched its valor against Red numbers in Korea to win improbable victories..."
The history of the "most coveted shoulder flash of the AEF is also a history of the Divisional nickname "Indianhead." The two are synonymous. The insignia portrays the All-American traditions of the Division as well as its place of origin.
Prior to approval of the Indianhead, combat elements of the Division went into fights wearing battle blazes similar to those of the British forces. The cloth blazes were usually worn on the left sleeve near the shoulder and were of different colors and sizes to denote the different battalions. For example, when the 3d Battalion, 9th Infantry, was selected to be one of the two attacking Battalions in the St Mihiel offensive, (September 1918) a conference of officers decided on battle blazes. They were to be three inches square on each shoulder, in red for the 3d Battalion or attacking echelon, white for the 2d Battalion in the next wave, and blue for the 1st Battalion or third wave. At least that was the idea. Many men at first thought the blazes would draw enemy fire and smeared mud on them or cut the center out. The 3d Battalion followed the directive to the letter and had three inch red squares on each arm just below the shoulder; but the 1st Battalion, afraid of the fire they would draw, cut their white patches down to one inch and placed them in rear of the left shoulder only. The 9th Infantry Machine Gun Company, attached to the 3d Battalion used small red circles, Headquarters Company a red triangle, and Regimental Headquarters and Staff, a three inch square divided into two triangles, one red and one white. A few days later other divisional units selected battle blazes.
Now let us see how the Indianhead insignia got started. In mid-March 1918 when the 2d Division was occupying trenches in the Toulon-Troyon sectors, Lieutenant Samuel T. Swift, 2d Supply Trains, was ordered to proceed to the 26th Division's sector for the purpose of bringing back some light Ford delivery trucks. Upon his return he reported to the Trains Commander, Colonel Herringshaw, and told him of insignia seen on trains in the Allied Army. They both agreed that the 2d Supply Trains certainly should have one. Weren't they the best outfit in the best damn Division in Europe?
Colonel Herringshaw wasted no time. Setting the wheels in motion
by assessing each of his officers five francs for prize money,
on 28 March he had the following memorandum published to his force:
A design is desired for use on our trucks similar to those
used on truck trains of other armies. Designs should be simple,
easily distinguishable and should not be liable of confusion with
other markings, and should have some special significance. Only
one design will be used but there will be three prizes awarded
as follows:
Designs will be passed on by a board appointed later.
Suggestions with a rough sketch should be submitted to
Headquarters by noon March 31st.
Thus began the search for an emblem which, in the days to come,
would become known and feared by the enemy. Sketches began to
pour in from the five companies of the Trains and from MSTU #303
which was attached. The board was swamped.
After some debate, an Indian Head submitted by Sergeant Louis B. Lundy, Company A, as an all-American symbol, was chosen as 1st prize winner; a star designed by Sergeant John Kenny of Company B, indicative of the fact that they came out of Mexico during the border trouble in 1916 into Texas, was declared 2d prize winner. The 3d place winner was lost in the shuffle.
Fortunately, Colonel Herringshaw was not satisfied with the winning designs, otherwise one of the most distinctive shoulder sleeve insignia in the Army would not have come into existence. For posterity's sake we will have to assume the Colonel's next move. He simply laid the pair on his desk and pondered a while. After some hesitation, he placed the Indian Head on the Star and decided the combination of the two made the best and most pleasing design. Thus the "Star and Indian Head" became the official insignia of the 2d Supply Trains, 2d Division. Sergeants Lundy and Kenny then split the prize money. History doesn't recall what the two soldier-designers did with their fortune, but soldiers are soldiers the world over and, in all probability, they managed to have a good time with it.
On 12 April the Colonel requested permission to stencil the design on all the vehicles of his command. The points of the star to be white, the face red, and the war bonnet blue. Permission was granted and as quick as paint could be procured the "Star and Indian Head" appeared on the equipment. Two months later, Major General Omar Bundy, commanding the Division, had his car taken into the repair shops during the Division's stay at La Ferte sous Jouarre, near Chateau Thierry, for some minor repairs. At this time he ordered the striking emblem to be painted on it.
Towards the end of the year General Headquarters, AEF, sent a telegram to Commanding Generals of all combat divisions in France and directed that they select a distinctive design to be used as a Divisional patch. On the 21st of October, Major General John A. LeJeune, U.S. Marine Corps, then commanding the 2d Division, selected the Star and Indian Head as the Division insignia. He admitted at the time that it had already been generally accepted and put into use. There was only one improvement on the old design. The crudely drawn Indian Head then in use was refined by using the head sculptured by Augustus St.Gauden, then shown on the American five dollar gold piece.
When the Division officially adopted the Star and Indian Head for its insignia, the fun began. Eventually it appeared in the most unlikely places and in almost as many shapes and sizes as there were men in the Division. An order of November 1918 directed that the background of the insignia would be cut in various shapes with different colors to designate the many divisional components. Among other things, it specified that the shapes would be: a shield, haxagon, oval, projectile, castle, cross, pentagon, circle, square, and oblong. The colors would be black, yellow, red, blue, purple, and green. All in all, collectors know of 44 variations of this fine insignia.
A year after the armistice, when it was thought that Divisional
insignia would be done away with, Colonel Harry A. Eaton, 23d
Infantry, wrote to The Adjutant General as follows:
... The insignia used by the Second Division has become of
great sentimental value to the men of the Division. In fact, men
have removed this insignia from their shoulders with great reluctance.
They have expressed themselves as being bitterly hurt that they
are required to take it off.
Because of the great usefulness of the system of identification
used overseas by the Second Division, it is believed that always
in time of active operations it will be used....
... it is therefore requested and urgently recommended, that the
Second Division be authorized to wear permanently, as a part of
the uniform of the Division, the shoulder insignia adopted and
worn by the Division during its active services in the World War...
In June 1920 the insignia was made permanent part of the uniform and worn by all men of the Division. However, it was no longer displayed in varied shapes and colors. It was directed that the insignia, a black shield with a white star and Indian Head would be the official insignia worn by all personnel.
Today, soldiers of the 2d Infantry Division wear with pride
the results of that early contest. Soldiers of other nations have
worn, and are still wearing, this design while serving with the
Division in Korea. They too, wear it with the prideful knowledge
that it symbolizes a well knit fighting outfit that has shown
its worth against the best the enemy has ever been able to throw
against it.
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