John Snodell
Bio
John M. Snodell was born on July 11, 1929, in Independence, Missouri. After graduating from De La Salle Military Academy in 1948, he worked in distribution until he was drafted into the United States Army in 1951. He received training as a combat engineer at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, where he completed his basic training. In early 1952, he left by boat from Seattle and was deployed to Korea, landing in Busan. He also spent some time in Japan before being rotated back to the United States in 1953.
Video Clips
Preparing for War
John Snodell reflects on his experience in distribution when the Korean War erupted in 1950. He remembers receiving a draft notice in 1951, informing him that he was to join the U.S. Army. After completing combat engineer training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, he was deployed to Korea. He mentions traveling by boat from Seattle, ultimately landing in Busan.
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From Busan to the Punchbowl
John Snodell shares his initial impressions of Busan, Korea. He recalls having a negative experience while getting onto a truck in Busan, after which he connected with the 1st Marine Division for the Battle of the Punchbowl. He remembers enduring a very cold winter during his time in Korea.
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The Coldest Winter
John Snodell shares his experiences with the 1st Marine Division, where he worked as a combat engineer. He recalls encountering soldiers from Cuba, Greece, and Turkey during his time in Korea. He describes the weather as being extremely cold, and he remembers having to sleep on the ground. He recalls observing Korean soldiers sleeping in trenches.
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Video Transcript