Korean War Legacy Project

Carl Rackley

Bio

Carl Rackley served in United States military in the Korean War, captured as a prisoner of war along the 38th Parallel. He describes the duration of his stay at the 38th parallel. He also describes having a hard time adjusting to a normal lifestyle when he came back home.  Carl Rackley was deeply affected even later in his life from the trauma he endured during the Korean War. He also details his job responsibilities while serving in Korea and his thoughts on the legacy the Korean War has left in the world today.

Video Clips

Escaping Through Marine Corps Bombs

Carl Rackley reflects on his experiences at the 38th Parallel. He describes being trapped there for roughly ten nights. He also details the amount of Chinese soldiers there. He expresses his gratitude for the Marine Corp troops who bombed the area for him to escape.

Tags: 1950 Battle of Chosin Reservoir, 11/27-12/13,Chinese,Fear,Physical destruction,Weapons

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Aiming Without Seeing the Enemy

Carl Rackley describes his job responsibilities concerning weaponry of the war. His unit prepared the Artillery 155 weapons. He details loading shells and powder for combat. He also describes the inability to see their target and using spotters to help their aim.

Tags: Front lines,Physical destruction,Weapons

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Nerve Damage from War

Carl Rackley describes here the lasting impact the Korean War has had on his life since he served. He describes having nerve problems and how this affects his daily life. He describes the roots of these nerve issues from their origins in war.

Tags: Fear,Living conditions,Personal Loss

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Never Going Back to Korea

Carl Rackley expresses his desire to never return to Korea. He describes how many of his fellow Korean War veteran friends have gone back. Despite their journeys back and hearing of South Korea's immense success, he insists he does not want to return.

Tags: Impressions of Korea,Modern Korea

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