John Martin
Bio
John Martin enlisted in the Australian Air Force in 1951. He served in Korea as a Leading Aircraftman (LAC) in the 77th Squadron of the Australian Air Force. Following basic training in Amberley, he began his time taking care of aircraft at Kimpo Air Base outside of Seoul. After his service in Korea ended in 1953, he returned to Australia where he began working as a flight engineer for major airline companies including Australia National Airways before spending time working with simulators in England. He has authored a yet unpublished book entitled A Life of Providence. John Martin is joined by his wife Shirley Martin who helps him tell his story as part of this interview.
Video Clips
Challenging Childhood
John Martin, with the help of his wife Shirley Martin, shares the challenges faced as a child and young adult. He was left in an orphanage as a baby by his mother who would later reclaim him when he turned eleven. His story includes some time training to become a jockey, a lengthy hospital stay while suffering from polio, and the search for jobs before enlisting in the Australian Air Force. These challenges allowed him to relate to the suffering of the Korean people during his time in Korea.
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Life in Korea
John Martin details what day-to-day life was like for him in Korea. He notes they had hot meals in the mess and slept in big tents. He further goes on to hint at the poverty he saw in Korea, particularly in the area around Seoul.
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Didn't Join to be a Koala, Wanted to See Some Action
John Martin joined the Australian Air Force around the time the Korean War broke out. His wife Shirley recalls a story he used to tell of explaining to his superior that he "didn't join up to be a koala, he joined to see some action". He explains there was always a chance of danger. He details the nightly leaflet drops by Bedcheck Charlie.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_jLWpRH6OI&start=3280&end=3444
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/john-martin#clip-3
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