Ronald Abey
Bio
Ronald Abey was born in Gore, Southland, on July 9, 1925. Growing up during tough times, he worked on farms to help his family and left school at 15. When he became of age, he completed his compulsory service with the Royal New Zealand Air Force. After the Korean War began in 1950, he volunteered to serve and left for Korea on December 10, 1950, aboard the SS Ormonde. He arrived in Pusan on December 31, 1950. In Korea, he first served as a gunner with Foxtroop 163 Battery, then later became a cook with the Royal New Zealand Army Service Corps. He left Korea on July 2, 1952, and was discharged on August 28, 1952. When he returned home, he noticed there was little fanfare and many people seemed unaware of what had happened in Korea. Still, he felt grateful for the chance to serve his country and the people of Korea.
Video Clips
A Volunteer Soldier
Ronald Abey explains that other soldiers looked down on him and saw him as less of a soldier because he volunteered for Korea. He remembers coming home to little public support, as most people were unfamiliar with the events that had occurred in Korea. Still, he says he is glad he chose to volunteer for the Korean War.
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