Korean War Legacy Project

Bernard Brownstein

Bio

Bernard Brownstein was drafted into the military but was able to defer his draft due to his college enrollment. When his draft came due, he thought he would be stationed in Germany but found himself shipped overseas to Incheon. He describes driving with other soldiers through Incheon and whistling at women they found attractive. He also details his impressions of the destruction of Seoul. In addition, he describes a visit with his cousin Myron who was stationed at the DMZ and desperately needed toilet paper. He marvels at the ingenuity of the Korean people and how they transformed their country from what it was to what it is today. He is proud of his service and feels that he played a small part in assisting Korea in its efforts.

Video Clips

Everyone Looked Beautiful

Bernard Brownstein describes his arrival in Incheon and drive to his camp. He explains that the soldier driving him whistles at Korean women as they are driving. He explains that initially he didn't find the girl attractive but as time went on, everyone became beautiful.

Tags: Incheon,Civilians,Impressions of Korea,Living conditions,South Koreans,Women

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No Windows Anywhere

Bernard Brownstein describes the condition of Seoul during the war. He explains what the food markets looked like at the side of the street. In addition, he explains the bullet holes and blown out windows of the capital's buildings.

Tags: Seoul,Food,Impressions of Korea,Living conditions,Physical destruction

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Toilet Paper Was The Big Thing

Bernard Brownstein describes being able to visit his cousin Myron who was also serving in Korea for five days. He explains how pulling connections made it possible for them to visit in person. He also describes how the only thing that Myron wanted from him was toilet paper.

Tags: Front lines,Impressions of Korea,Living conditions

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Ingenuity of the Korean People

Bernard Brownstein shares his memories of Seoul and its disheveled state. He marvels at the ingenuity of the South Korean people as he recounts how they constructed their homes and carried out everyday tasks. He adds that the automatic internal ingenuity of the Korean people led them from where they were to where they are now.

Tags: Seoul,Civilians,Impressions of Korea,Modern Korea,Physical destruction,Pride,South Koreans

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6syO9Bb7ec&start=2134&end=2359

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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/bernard-brownstein#clip-4

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