Floyd Allen Reedy
Bio
Floyd Allen Reedy was born to two schoolteachers on February 6, 1929, in Fremont, Virginia, shortly before the start of the Great Depression. Private First Class Reedy supported the defense of Korea during a period of transition following World War II. Serving as part of the Army of Occupation on the Korean peninsula, he patrolled the demilitarized zone and worked with the postal service in Seoul. After his service, he attended Hiwassee College on the GI Bill, briefly following in his parents’ footsteps as an educator. He met the love of his life, Lily Marie, in 1948, married in 1950, and raised five wonderful children. With his family’s support, he embarked on several ventures, including a market that became well known in Englewood, Tennessee. He is proud of his service and appreciates the discipline and respect it taught him for the United States of America.
Video Clips
Adapting to the Harsh Conditions
Floyd Reedy recalls his time serving in Seoul. He shares how the GI-issued uniform, intended for Alabama weather, was inadequate for the harsh 40-below-zero weather they were experiencing in Korea. Along with the extreme cold, he recounts how the mess hall food was initially extremely greasy and watery, but improved dramatically as time went on.
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Experience as the Army of Occupation
Floyd Reedy provides a valuable perspective, having served in the Army of Occupation before the outbreak of the war. He describes how U.S. personnel were instructed to avoid contact with the Korean population. He notes some economic and cultural differences, such as the common practice in Korea of four generations living together.
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Journey of Letters
Floyd Reedy recalls transporting mail for soldiers from Incheon to Seoul. During some periods, he shares how the larger vessels were unable to enter the harbor, and smaller vessels would have to retrieve the mail. When he learned he would be returning home, he remembers writing letters home to his family and having his buddies send them home on specific dates. To his surprise, he notes making it home before his first letter arrived. After the interview ended, Floyd fondly recounted his favorite memory from his postal service days: Elizabeth Taylor was sending perfumed mail to someone in his unit, and loving to smell the envelopes as they came.
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Photos
Floyd Reedy after presentation of War Medals
At the age of 97, Floyd is presented with his War Medals on July 11, 2026.
