Franklin M. Sarver, Jr.
Bio
Franklin Sarver, Jr. enlisted in the United States National Guard in June 1948. After a few semesters in college, he returned home to help his parents run their grocery store. In June 1951, he reenlisted in the U.S. Army, completing basic and advanced training at Camp Ellis and Camp Ripley, where he specialized as a gunner on a 75mm recoilless rifle. Following training, he received orders to serve with the Far East Command, eventually arriving in Korea. He was met in Pusan by his uncle, who worked at the port, before being sent to Chuncheon and later Koje-Do. There, he served as a sergeant overseeing enlisted men’s pay. Later in life, he became an active member of the Korean War Veterans Association, holding various leadership roles, including chaplain.
Video Clips
Calculating Combat Pay
Franklin Sarver, Jr. describes his responsibility for calculating enlisted men's pay and how he and a small team managed the payment process. He explains the criteria soldiers had to meet in order to receive combat pay. Through this role, he gained insight into the financial aspects of military service.
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Thought on North Korea and "The Forgotten War"
Franklin Sarver, Jr. reflects on the situation in modern North Korea, contrasting it with South Korea’s progress. He offers his perspective on why the Korean War is often called the "Forgotten War." In his view, the conflict's impact has been overshadowed by other historical events.
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Sea Sickness
Franklin M. Sarver, Jr. recalls leaving Camp Stoneman in California on his journey to Japan and then Korea. He vividly describes the seasickness he and others endured during the voyage. Reflecting on those days, he shares memorable experiences from life aboard the ship.
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The Armistice
Franklin M. Sarver, Jr. explains his unit was in the midst of fighting when the Armistice was signed. He recalls the challenge of accounting for all the men within 48 hours and describes how his team managed to complete the task. Despite the difficulties, they successfully met the deadline.
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Life at Koje-Do
Franklin Sarver Jr. describes life at Koje-Do, where his duties were unrelated to the nearby POW camp. Although he couldn’t leave the compound, he recalls having regular hot army meals, though they slept in unheated tents. Despite the discomfort, he emphasizes the routine of their daily life there.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JY8w0YhkV0&start=1473&end=1619
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