Eugene Gregory
Bio
Eugene Gregory enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps on March 5, 1951. After completing boot camp in San Diego, he advanced to infantry training at Camp Pendleton, followed by cold-weather training at Pickle Meadows in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and artillery training at Camp Del Mar. In November 1951, he deployed to Korea aboard the USS Henrico, stopping briefly in Japan before making an amphibious landing south of the 38th Parallel to join the 10th Corps. His primary role involved artillery support, requiring him to travel between bases daily to deliver communications and share the password used to identify friendly forces. He has since returned to Korea twice and expresses deep respect for the Korean people and their remarkable progress since the war. He takes immense pride in the service he provided to the Korean people.
Video Clips
Marine Corps Advanced Infantry Training
Eugene Gregory describes his training in the Marine Corps Advanced Infantry as intense and rigorous. He recalls navigating barbed wire, enduring live-fire exercises, and training in cold weather conditions. He explains that this preparation aimed to help soldiers adapt to combat scenarios and survive the harsh Korean winters.
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The Purpose of the Password
Eugene Gregory explains his role in artillery which often stationed him in a fire support position away from the front lines. He recalls traveling between artillery bases to deliver communications and share the daily changing password. This password served a critical purpose, helping guard duty personnel distinguish between friendly forces and potential threats.
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The Biggest Threat Support Faced
Eugene Gregory explains the unique dangers faced by artillery support compared to front-line combat. He recalls frequent threats from mortars and artillery rather than rifle fire, often forcing him to dive into foxholes for cover. He admires the North Korean and Chinese forces’ artillery precision, attributing their skill to their need to conserve limited ammunition.
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Experiencing Fear
Eugene Gregory reflects on the fear he experienced while serving in Korea, particularly during his first amphibious landing. He recalls feeling terrified, as it was his first combat experience and he didn’t know if the enemy would counter the landing. Over time, he became more experienced and combat-aware, which lessened his fear, though it never completely disappeared.
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Revisit to Commemorate the Battle of the Punchbowl
Eugene Gregory left a devastated Korea, believing he would never return. However, he revisited the country in 2009 and 2010 to honor the Battle of the Punchbowl. He expresses deep respect for the Korean people and admires all they have achieved since the war.
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