Kenneth Kurtz
Bio
Kenneth Kurtz grew up in Arcola, Indiana, where he first worked for a sewage contractor before joining the assembly line at Farnsworth Radio and Television Company. In March 1951, he was drafted into the U.S. Army along with 55 others from his community. After processing at Fort Custer, Michigan, he completed basic infantry training at Fort Riley, Kansas. Initially serving as an ammo bearer, he was soon reassigned from the front lines to unit headquarters, where he helped organize records for a medic company. Because of his growing experience in personnel work, he was later transferred to the 5th Army Headquarters Personnel Unit after rotating out of Korea. There, he continued serving until his honorable discharge in December 1952. Throughout his service, Kurtz adapted quickly to new roles and responsibilities, contributing both in combat support and administrative capacities.
Video Clips
Ammo Bearer to Headquarters Duty
Kenneth Kurtz explains how he transitioned from serving as an ammo bearer with the 35th Infantry Regiment to working at unit headquarters. Since the medic company needed someone skilled in math and typing to organize records, he was quickly reassigned. As a result, he spent the rest of his service in the company’s personnel unit.
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Korean People and Turkish Troops
Kenneth Kurtz recalls how grateful the Korean people were toward American soldiers. He was amazed that, despite living amid destruction, they continued to fight bravely. Additionally, he notes that during his time in Korea, a unit of ROK soldiers and a brigade of Turkish troops were attached to his unit.
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Living Conditions
Kenneth Kurtz describes the harsh living conditions in Korea, explaining that they slept in tents, bunkers, or holes dug in the ground, depending on the location and time. He recalls the winter as bitterly cold. However, he notes they were far better equipped than troops had been during the previous winter.
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Pay & Rations
Kenneth Kurtz recounts that soldiers were paid in script, and he sent most of his earnings home for his father to invest. Additionally, he recalls how much he earned during his service in Korea. He also describes the c-rations they ate on the front lines, highlighting the basic but essential nature of their meals.
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