Ernesto Sanchez
Bio
Ernesto Sanchez was drafted into the United States Army on March 19, 1952, while studying at Texas A & I in Kingsville, TX. Serving as a Sergeant First Class and platoon leader, he was part of the 40th Infantry Division-223. During his service, he fought in significant battles such as No Name Hill, the Iron Triangle, and Heartbreak Ridge. He earned several honors for his bravery, including the Combat Badge, the Korean Service and Good Conduct medals, and the Korea Defense Award. After his discharge, Sanchez returned to Texas A & I University, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree.
Video Clips
Trench warfare like World War I
Ernesto Sanchez describes serving in the Korean War as likely similar to World War I, involving tasks such as digging trenches, building fences, and placing mines. By creating a No Man's Land, the forces were able to hold off the Chinese troops. Notably, he also recalls taking Chinese soldiers as prisoners, with civilians often assisting in this effort.
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Attacked by 135,000 Soldiers
Ernesto Sanchez recalls the night when 135,000 Chinese soldiers launched an attack to push back UN forces. Although the Chinese initially pushed the United Nations forces back, American soldiers helped hold their ground, preventing any loss of territory. This battle was particularly crucial, as the location was a strategic gateway to Seoul.
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Being Drafted and Arriving in Korea
Ernesto Sanchez recalls his mother’s reaction to his being drafted, expressing her desire to go with him, even though she clearly could not. Upon arriving in Korea, the U.S. Army issued winter clothing to cope with the cold but expected him and his platoon to walk from Incheon to Seoul. Fortunately, while walking, he managed to hitch a ride on American tanks, which helped him cover the distance to Seoul.
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Everywhere I Went I Made a Profit
Ernesto Sanchez recalls earning about $87 per month as a soldier but used his entrepreneurial skills to supplement his income. He started by doing laundry for his fellow GIs during basic training, then moved on to lending money to those who had lost all their earnings gambling. Additionally, he bought items in Japan to send home to his mother for resale, noting that wherever he went, he found ways to make a profit.
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The Armistice
Ernesto Sanchez reminisces about the day of the armistice, recalling the order to cease fire. However, he vividly remembers the enemy throwing flares, followed by American forces returning fire, before everything suddenly stopped. His heart broke when they were forced to give up Heartbreak Ridge, a position they had fought so hard to capture.
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