Douglas C. Fargo
Bio
Douglas C. Fargo was born in Lincoln Park, Michigan, and worked as an assistant supermarket manager before his draft on April 11, 1944. Serving in the Army from 1944 to 1956, Fargo fought in both World War II and the Korean War, earning a Battlefield Commission during WWII. After landing in Pusan, he was stationed at Heartbreak Ridge from November 1951 to March 1952 with the 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, participating in the fierce Battle of Heartbreak Ridge as a 1st Lieutenant. His service earned him numerous honors, including the National Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal, UN Service Medal, two Combat Infantry Badges, two Bronze Stars, and the Korean Presidential Citation. After returning to the United States, Fargo resumed his former position at the supermarket.
Video Clips
Heartbreak Ridge
Douglas C. Fargo recalls his role as a platoon leader on Heartbreak Ridge from November 1951 to March 1952, where he led eleven combat missions. He describes serving alongside South Korean soldiers and the sorrow of losing men under his command. He also recounts capturing North Korean soldiers during both attacks and patrols.
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A Leader's View of Leadership
Douglas C. Fargo recalls his happiest moment during his service was being recalled. He reflects on his leadership approach of entering combat alongside his men. He takes pride in this hands-on style leadership and his strong record, losing only three men across all missions.
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Reflections on a Career
Douglas C. Fargo shares a historical map of Korea where each battle is shown. He also proudly explains how he received the Bronze Star during the Korean War to add to the one earned during World War II. He offers advice on the importance of maintaining our freedoms today.
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Always Accompanied Men
Douglas Fargo explains that he always accompanied his men on each of their eleven combat missions. His unit included two South Koreans, whose skills proved invaluable when capturing North Korean soldiers, and three Native Americans, who served as exceptional scouts. He shares details about the missions where they successfully captured North Korean soldiers.
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Impressed with Modernization
In 2010, Douglas Fargo returned to Korea as a veteran for a commemorative event. He also visited the country several times through his post-war careers in the U.S. government and the automobile industry. He shares his admiration for Korea's transformation, especially the modern cityscape of Seoul and the advanced facilities at Inchon Airport.
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/douglas-c-fargo#clip-5
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