Frank Montolio
Bio
Frank Montolio was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1931. After starting a new job as an accountant following business school, he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1952 and assigned as a Supply Sergeant. He completed his quartermaster training at Ft. Lee in Virginia, then moved on to Japan before arriving in Korea later that summer. Stationed near Wonju and Hongcheon, he worked with the 306th Engineering Dump Truck Company, helping maintain the region’s roads. Frank takes great pride in his service, believing that the work accomplished during his time in Korea was important and meaningful.
Video Clips
Legacy of Korean War
Frank Montolio sees the American presence in Korea as crucial for the country's development, as it helped curb the spread of Communism and paved the way for Korea’s prosperity. He believes U.S. involvement was key to shaping the nation’s future and securing its success. Looking back, he is confident that it was the right decision at the time.
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Football Leads to Korea
Frank Montolio recalls how two of his high school friends, both on full football scholarships, joined the Navy Reserves to stay active after being sidelined from first-string play. However, soon after, they were ordered to Korea, where they suffered severe frostbite on their feet. This injury had lasting physical consequences, severely impacting their future prospects.
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Drafted
Frank Montolio explains that when he was drafted in 1952, he felt a sense of invincibility, so fear or concern didn't really affect him. At the same time, he felt a strong sense of pride, knowing it was his duty as a citizen to accept the draft and give his best effort. He viewed it as an honorable responsibility and embraced the challenge ahead.
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Life in Korea
When Frank Montolio arrived in Korea, he was assigned to the 306th Engineering Dump Truck Company, which was responsible for maintaining the region's roads. For nearly six months, he drove dump trucks and spread gravel, gaining valuable experience. However, his hard work paid off when he was promoted to supply sergeant, a role that shifted his responsibilities and broadened his duties during his time in Korea.
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