Hiroshi Shima
Bio
Hiroshi Shima was drafted in 1951 after having his original draft notice from 1945 deferred because he had two older brothers serving in Europe during World War II. He spent 13 weeks training at Schofield Barracks in Hilo, HI, before being transferred to Camp Drum, NY. He was activated in November 1952 and was sent to Korea. He was eventually attached to the 31st Infantry Regiment of the 7th Division of the U.S. Army as a clerk. He recalls early impressions of Korea, particularly the area near Chuncheon, as well as life on the front line. He recounts the challenges he faced as the only Asian member of his unit. He speaks fondly of the Korean people and government never forgetting what the Korean War veterans did.
Video Clips
The Hills were Bare
Hiroshi Shima recalls his earliest impressions of Korea. He speaks of the fear felt when he first arrived on the front lines and notes that since there was no action in the area how they were assigned to night patrol. He offers a good contrast between life on the front lines with life in Chuncheon where he was later assigned.
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I Wanted to Come Home Safe
Hiroshi Shima offers an account of a one-time visit to Seoul. He recalls the joy people felt with the signing of the armistice and his return home to Hawaii. He admits that one of the greatest difficulties soldiers faced was fear, especially because everyone wanted to come home. He explains that many saw buddies die, but that really they were not there long enough to have real buddies.
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Very, Very Proud
Hiroshi Shima expresses amazement at the transformation of post-war South Korea. He has been fortunate enough to make three return trips. He notes that he is proud of the role he played in the Korean War which allowed this transformation to occur.
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Americans Forget, Koreans Don't Forget
Hiroshi Shima addresses the issue of the Korean War being the “Forgotten War”. He notes that it is the Americans that forgot, but that the Korean government and people never forgot. He remembers how the Korean War veterans were never really recognized as the World War II veterans had been. He is joined by his friend Hannah Kim who escaped Korea following the war. She reads a “Letter to Gray Beard” she wrote to express her gratitude and that of the Korean people for what the Korean War veterans did.
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The Enemy Was Caucasian
Hiroshi Shima details the challenges of being the only Asian soldier in his unit. He recalls how many were suspicious of him. He speaks of how the Army assured his safety under these circumstances. He shares that there was little he could do about the circumstances but take orders.
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