John Pound
Bio
John Pound grew up in poverty and was raised by his grandparents during World War II. Inspired by a neighbor in a sailor’s uniform, he volunteered for the Royal Navy at age 17. After training as a radar plotter for the operations room, he was assigned to HMS Charity during the Korean War. There, he monitored radar screens for enemy movement, assisted in rescuing pilots who missed their carrier landings, and helped target coastal trains in Korea. His role required focus, quick thinking, and teamwork. After his service, John remained proud of his contributions. Today, he feels deeply honored to be invited to formal dinners hosted by Korean organizations across Britain—a gesture that reminds him his service is still valued and remembered.
Video Clips
Work as a British Radar Plotter
Trained as a radar plotter, John Pound recalls working in the ship’s darkened operations room to avoid enemy detection. There, he scanned the sea for enemy vessels. Occasionally, star shells lit up the night, briefly revealing ships nearby. More often, he spotted small fishing boats moving quietly through the surrounding waters.
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Navy Noon Rum Ration
John Pound recalls the daily rum ration given to all sailors—a long-standing naval tradition. Higher-ranking sailors received theirs straight, while lower ranks had it diluted with water. The ration often served as shipboard currency. He vividly remembers his first time receiving it and spending the night sleeping off its effects in his hammock.
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Sending and Receiving "Projjies"
Aboard HMS Charity, John Pound helped fire shells—nicknamed “projjies”—at trains along the North Korean coast. He recalls one Easter when North Korean gunners fired back from cave positions. Between missions, he also assisted in spotting and rescuing pilots who missed their landings on nearby aircraft carriers, ensuring their safe recovery from the sea.
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