Mehmet Copten
Bio
Mehmet Çöpten served as a sergeant in the Turkish Infantry during the Korean War, joining the 3rd Brigade in deployment to Korea in 1952. He saw combat at Cheorwon and the Nevada Complex, frequently engaging Chinese forces. Remarkably, none of the soldiers under his command were injured, a fact that fills him with pride. Years later, he returned to Korea and was amazed by how much the country had progressed, far beyond what he had imagined during his service.
Video Clips
Devastation of Korea
Mehmet Çöpten describes arriving in a war-torn Busan, where the city lay in ruins and many children were orphaned and starving. While Turkish troops received ample supplies from American forces, they often gave food secretly to help the children and other needy civilians, showing compassion amid the devastation.
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Hill 1062: Papasan Hill
Mehmet Çöpten describes Papasan Hill near Cheorwon, a key battlefront in the Iron Triangle. He recalls the Chinese fighters’ deception, including using surrendering soldiers as cover for attacks. To respond, Turkish soldiers developed coded messages and remained constantly alert, aware that an ambush could occur at any moment.
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Vegas Front
Mehmet Çöpten describes the Vegas Front, where Chinese forces used howitzers on one hill while attacking another. Over thirty-six hours, the Turkish fighters lost 153 men but ultimately secured the front. After their hard-fought victory, they handed control of the position over to the American forces.
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