Elbert H. Collins
Bio
Elbert H. Collins enlisted in the United States Navy in 1947 and later served as a medical corpsman with the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. One of his most vivid memories is seeing civilians, including women and children, walking along the roadsides and often needing medical attention. While stationed at the Nakdong Perimeter, he was injured by a ricocheted bullet and required medical care himself. He describes the harsh living conditions and the fear he often felt. He also recalls the preparations for the Incheon Landing, a significant operation during the war. Despite the challenges, he is proud of his service and the lives he was able to help during the conflict.
Video Clips
Memories of Wounded Civilians
Elbert Collins recalls the overwhelming sight of civilians, including women and children, walking along the roads. He describes an incident where civilians nearly killed a North Korean prisoner. As a medic, he often wondered about the fate of the people he treated, but he was later gratified to receive a letter from one Marine he had helped.
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Injured in the Line of Duty
Elbert Collins describes the intense experience on the front lines at the Nakdong Perimeter, where North Koreans charged the Americans and came as close as 20 yards. He recalls fierce fighting in villages and hills along the perimeter. During one battle, he was shot by a ricochet bullet in the bottom.
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Living Conditions
Elbert Collins explains that they were often limited to eating C-rations and smoking old World War II cigarettes. Some days, the C-rations didn’t arrive, leaving them without food. He describes the foxholes they slept in, including one he dug that later flooded. During this time, he admits he was terrified and frequently questioned why he was there.
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Incheon Landing
In preparation for the Incheon Landing, Elbert Collins recalls taking shelter in a warehouse during a typhoon that hit the area. He details the extensive preparations they received and the instructions for the landing. However, he admits that he was so scared at the time that he couldn’t focus on following the directions. Despite the fear, he pressed forward with the mission.
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From the Navy to the Marines and on to Korea
After joining the U.S. Navy, Elbert Collins passed the test to attend Navy flight school in Florida, starting in late 1950. In the meantime, he completed medical training in San Diego and received specialized training at a hospital in Bremerton, Washington. Shortly after the July 4th weekend, he received orders to report to the Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton, marking the beginning of his deployment to Korea.
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