Howard Lee
Bio
Howard Lee was born and raised in Louisiana during the tumultuous years of the Great Depression. He attended high school in Houston, Texas. In 1950, he made the pivotal decision to enlist in the United States Army, a choice influenced by the guidance of his uncles and his employer at that time. Upon landing at Incheon, South Korea, he was struck by his first impressions of the war-torn landscape. He vividly recalled the early morning journey on a Landing Ship Tank (LST), where he waded through waist-deep water toward the shore, greeted by the sight of a city engulfed in flames. During his service, he served in the 55th Engineer Treadway Bridge Company, where he was tasked with taking water velocity readings, an important duty that underscored his commitment to the mission. He took great pride in his service and often reflected on the experiences that shaped him. He felt it was essential to share his story and convey an important message to younger generations about the value of service and resilience.
Video Clips
Landing at Incheon
Howard Lee recalls his first impressions of South Korea when he landed at Incheon. He remembers the early morning journey on a Landing Ship Tank (LST) and walking through waist-deep water towards the shore, where he saw a city ablaze. He recounts witnessing dead bodies floating in the water and the fear he felt as he and his company made landfall and assembled at their assigned checkpoint.
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Bridge Construction Assignments
Howard Lee shares that once their equipment and materials arrived in Incheon, they were given construction assignments. He recalls being assigned to build bridges at various locations on specific dates. He mentions that the company was required to camp in the area once a bridge was completed until they received their next assignment and mission. He comments on the availability of food and the mailing schedule for his company while they were in Korea.
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Water Velocity Readings
Howard Lee describes his responsibilities as a member of the 55th Engineer Treadway Bridge Company. He explains that he had to measure the water velocity six times a day and keep records for related reports. The readings were required to be taken every four hours, and he provides a detailed account of the process involved.
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Message to Younger Generations
Howard Lee shares an important message with younger generations about the significance of supporting their government and being loyal to their country. He emphasizes that if someone is unhappy with the government, they should work towards making changes instead of becoming disloyal. He asserts that unity is crucial, stating, "together we stand, but divided, we fall."
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