Kenneth D. Cox
Bio
Kenneth D. Cox was drafted into the Army in 1951 and was stationed in various locations around Seoul, Yeongdeungpo, and Teagu during the Korean War. He received basic training at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, and later advanced heavy infantry training. He was sent to Korea in July 1951, where he served with the 44th Engineer Battalion as a Corporal during the Korean War, specializing in engineering and construction. His arrival in Incheon was slowed due to low tide.
Video Clips
Rewarding Experiences with Children
Kenneth Cox recalls one of the most rewarding moments of his service. He often offered food to the child laborers nearby, and through these exchanges he remembers a meaningful musical experience. Whenever they began a tune he recognized, he eagerly joined in, creating brief but memorable moments of connection amid difficult circumstances.
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Korea Past and Present
Kenneth Cox reflects on Korea then and now, noting the dramatic changes he saw during his revisit. He also recounts a story about gathering firewood that highlighted the hardships of the past. Looking at South Korea’s progress, he proudly acknowledges the nation’s remarkable transformation.
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A Unique Meeting in Hawaii
Kenneth Cox shares a story of meeting a Korean waitress in Hawaii years after his service in Korea. He recounts that she lived near the hospital the 44th Engineer Battalion built near Teagu. He recalls exchanging a few memories and catching up on its present state.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmB8oObRjLU&start=1560&end=1687
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The Broken Hearts Helped Rebuild Korea
Kenneth Cox explains how the 44th Engineering outfit earned its “Broken Heart” name. After a newspaper headline inspired them, the unit marked all equipment and projects with a black broken heart. He adds that this engineering team played a key role in rebuilding Korea during and after the war.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmB8oObRjLU&start=1786&end=2039
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/kenneth-d-cox#clip-4
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