Korean War Legacy Project

Nom Supaphol

Bio

Nom Supaphol joined the Thai Army after finishing the 7th grade. Departing for Korea with the third batch of Thai troops in 1952, he spent ten months in Korea. Serving as a heavy machine gunner, he actively participated in the Battle of Pork Chop Hill. As a Korean War veteran, he feels immense pride and extends heartfelt thanks to the Korean people who provided care during his time in Korea.

Video Clips

Knew Nothing of Korea

Nom Supaphol reveals his lack of knowledge about Korea when deployed with the third batch of Thai Army troops in 1952. Assigned as a heavy machine gunner, he recalls navigating the war with little prior understanding of the Korean terrain or conflict.

Tags: Prior knowledge of Korea,Weapons

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Experience at Pork Chop Hill

During the Battle of Pork Chop Hill, Nom Supaphol recalls finding himself stationed in the second line, close to the T-Bone area. Amid the conflict, he explains one of his comrades lost their life while fetching rations. Nights were intense with fighting, and mornings brought the grim task of retrieving fallen comrades. However, he faced these challenges without fear, recognizing the battle was solely against the enemy.

Tags: 1953 Battle of Pork Chop Hill, 3/23-7/16,Fear,Food,Front lines,Personal Loss,Physical destruction,Weapons

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Life on the Front Lines

Nom Supaphol shares he found military training to be the most challenging aspect of his time in the Thai Army. Homesickness crept in, especially during moments of complete exhaustion. He remembers sleeping outdoors and receiving canned food rations and cigarettes daily while on duty. During their downtime away from the front lines, he fondly remembers how the Korean people would sell them food and even take him on trips around the area.

Tags: 1953 Battle of Pork Chop Hill, 3/23-7/16,Civilians,Food,Front lines,Impressions of Korea,Letters,Living conditions,Rest and Relaxation (R&R),South Koreans

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