Robert Mitchell
Bio
Bob Mitchell joined the U.S. Marine Corps in January 1951, shortly after dropping out of high school. After training as a machine gunner at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and serving in the Fleet Marine Force patrolling the Mediterranean Sea for six months, he volunteered to serve in Korea in the Spring 1952. He served as part of Baker Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines. From December 1952 until the armistice ended action in Korea, he spent most of his time on the front lines. In February 1953, he saw action at the Battle of Hill 90. He shares his experiences in Korea with students through the Tell America program.
Video Clips
Ambushing Force Gets Ambushed
Bob Mitchell recalls the events of the Battle of Hill 90 when the 5th Marines were ambushed by an overwhelming Chinese force. He details his unit's retreat from the region with the dead and wounded from the fighting. He notes the sacrifice of a few brave Marines who gave their lives engaging Chinese head on.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhclZP9Tjas&start=913&end=1134
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/bob-mitchell#clip-1
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Living with the Guilt
Bob Mitchell recalls being sent to the rear on sick call. He shares that while he was in the hospital, he learned his entire unit had been overwhelmed in an attack by the Chinese. He shares he grappled with this event and eventually reached the conclusion it was just the reality of war; in combat death comes strictly by random.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhclZP9Tjas&start=1218&end=1370
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/bob-mitchell#clip-2
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The Reality of Trench Warfare
Bob Mitchell offers details of the living conditions during the trench warfare in the latter stages of the Korean War. He describes dealing with giant rodents, freezing conditions, and body lice. He recalls when they left the trench and finally taking a hot shower.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhclZP9Tjas&start=1635&end=1782
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/bob-mitchell#clip-3
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C Rations and Life in Wartime Korea
Bob Mitchell offers a description of the C-Rations soldiers received during the war. He recalls there were few favorite meals among the offerings. He shares the one thing all wanted when they had the opportunity to go on Rest and Relaxation. He remembers the utter poverty and the suffering of the children.
Share YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhclZP9Tjas&start=1861&end=2011
Share from this page:
https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/bob-mitchell#clip-4
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