John Bierman
Bio
John Bierman was born in 1928 in Dallas, Texas. He graduated from high school in 1945 and subsequently attended New Mexico Military Institute Junior College. Following his mother’s recommendation, he applied to and graduated from Naval Officer Training School in 1951. He was commissioned as an ensign in the United States Navy and assigned to the Naval Amphibious School in Coronado, California. After completing this training, he was assigned to the attack cargo ship USS Winston. During the Korean War, he was stationed off the coast of Korea, where he participated in amphibious assault training. Upon returning to the United States, he decided to pursue a long-term military career.
Video Clips
Smoke As Our Guise
John Bierman details the operation of smoke boats employed in amphibious assaults. He recalls how the smoke boat was generally the first vessel to enter and the last to depart during amphibious training exercises. He explains how diesel fuel was combined with water to generate a dense white smoke cloud, which served to shield landing craft during the Korean War.
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Deceptive Amphibious Assaults
John Bierman reports conducting deceptive amphibious assaults along the Korean coast during the war. He describes these operations as diversions aimed at opposing forces to draw them away from the front line. He also recalls coming under enemy fire and being awarded the Combat Action Ribbon in 1951.
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Preparing For Military Life
John Bierman shares growing up with a desire to train for the military. He recalls attending the New Mexico Military Institute after completing high school and describes the training he received. He explains that he also received an education while simultaneously preparing for military life.
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The Holloway Program
John Bierman discusses applying for the Holloway Program, the Naval version of the ROTC. He recalls being accepted after completing a series of interviews and passing exams, and then being sent to the University of Oklahoma for training. He describes studying chemical engineering and Naval Science prior to his graduation in 1951 as an ensign.
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