Korean War Legacy Project

Dennis Grogan

Bio

Dennis Grogan grew up living with his grandparents in County Down, Northern Ireland. Throughout his coming of age, he developed a love of aircraft because of seeing planes flying in and out of a United States Air Force Base located near his home. He left school at the age of fourteen to become a cycle mechanic for two years.  At age sixteen, he landed a three-year apprenticeship in the Royal Air Force, where he learned to excel in the mechanics of various types of aircraft. During his time in Korea, he worked as an Aircraft Technician (Mechanical) on a variety of planes, including the Auster. He discusses why he is proud to have been a part of the Korean War legacy, and the issue of little acknowledgement of the sacrifices made by Korean War veterans.

Video Clips

Apprenticeship Preparations

Dennis Grogan explains the circumstances of his apprenticeship in the Royal Air Force. He recalls having extensive training for three years to learn skills in various areas, such as welding and hydraulics. He shares the importance of his participation in sports throughout his training and describes a variety of locations his training took him to.

Tags: Basic training,Rest and Relaxation (R&R),Weapons

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The Auster Aircraft

Dennis Grogan describes the mechanics and construction of the Auster aircraft. He explains that it was a very practical plane with no armored plating, and a metal frame that was covered with canvas. He shares how he was proficient in helping to start the aircraft, which involved switch off, throttle closed, brakes hard on. He explains the details of checking aircraft maintenance in the winter compared to what needed to be done in the summer.

Tags: Cold winters,Front lines,Weapons

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Recollections of Korea

Dennis Grogan talks about the sacrifice he made to serve in Korea. He explains how he received correspondence from his wife, saying his daughter had been born while he was in Korea. He discusses why he is proud to have been a part of the Korean War legacy and the issue of little acknowledgement of the sacrifices made by Korean War veterans.

Tags: 1953 Armistice 7/27,Front lines,Home front,Letters,Living conditions,Message to Students,Pride,Rest and Relaxation (R&R),Women

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