Osman Yasar Eken
Bio
Osman Yasar Eken served in the Turkish infantry during the Korean War as part of the third group of Turkish soldiers stationed at the Nevada Complex. Throughout the war, he was deeply moved by the plight of the Korean civilians, who faced hunger and displacement while he fought on their behalf. Osman Eken endured incredibly challenging battle conditions, particularly during the Battle of Vegas, in which Türkiye suffered significant losses. Despite the physical scars he carried, the most enduring wounds were those within his mind, highlighting the lasting impact of his wartime experiences. Osman Eken was proud of and passionate about his service in Korea.
Video Clips
Revenge
Osman Eken recounts how the desperate situation of the Korean people boosted his morale as a fighter. He remembers seeing hungry civilians, dressed in tattered clothing and lacking shelter, often wandering and begging for food. He explains that observing their suffering only reinforced his resolve to fight harder.
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Descriptions of War
Osman Eken describes the conditions of war, stating that he did not feel a sense of danger or think about death. He provides a vivid account of the Battle of Vegas, which resulted in numerous Chinese casualties. He notes that Türkiye lost one hundred and forty-seven soldiers within a span of twenty-six hours during this conflict.
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Endless Memories
Osman Eken reflects on the persistent memories of the Korean War. He admits that he cannot escape these recollections. He explains that while people often ask about his physical scars, the real injury lies within his mind.
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Video Transcript