Korean War Legacy Project

Gerald Spandorf

Bio

Gerald Spandorf was born on June 15, 1935 in the Bronx Borough of New York City. He enlisted in the United States Navy following high school because he loved being on the water, and it allowed him to escape the hard life of the inner city. He received basic training in Bainbridge, Maryland and was assigned to a ship in Newport, Rhode Island. His goal was to travel the world, and he visited more than seventeen countries during his time in the service. He was extremely glad to serve his country and lend a helping hand in time of need.

Video Clips

A Better Way of Life

Gerald Spandorf recalls volunteering for the Navy because he loved to swim and be in the water. He remembers having a strong desire to serve his country. He describes the training he received and how he wanted a better life.

Tags: Basic training,Civilians,Home front,Living conditions,Prior knowledge of Korea,Weapons

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Friend or Foe

Gerald Spandorf recalls traveling the world while in the Navy. He remembers many adventures, such as having to deboard the ship in England due to bad weather. He explains how they were not allowed to port in the Netherlands due to hostile feelings toward the United States left over from the Second World War.

Tags: Fear,Living conditions,Physical destruction,Pride,Weapons

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Share YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcH_WaKRAZ8&start=247&end=338

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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/gerald-spandorf#clip-2

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