Philip E. Hahn
Bio
Philip E. Hahn enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after graduating from Elyria High School in 1949, inspired by an older cousin. Thriving on the structure and discipline offered by the Corps, he took pride in becoming part of its tradition. When the Korean War broke out, he received deployment orders and headed to the infamous Incheon Landing. Armed with a bazooka, he was shocked by the devastation he witnessed in Korea. At the Chosin Reservoir, he found himself surrounded by the Chinese but remained unafraid, trusting in his fellow Marines. Wounded by a mortar round, he was eventually evacuated from the front lines and sent home. Upon returning to Korea later, he marveled at the recovery and progress the country had made, as well as the resilience of its people. He deeply appreciates the Korean people’s gratitude for his service.
Video Clips
The Battle at Hagaru-ri
At Hagaru-ri, Phillip Hahn remembers the challenges of extreme cold and minimal rations. He expresses no regrets about standing the line with his fellow Marines. Despite heavy losses, he felt protected and secure with his brothers by his side. He vividly recalls the moment he was pulled from the front lines due to wounds from a mortar explosion.
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Encountering Guerrillas and Civilians
Phillip Hahn vividly recalls the heartbreak of war as he witnessed children serving as guerrillas and the necessity of eliminating them. He also recounts the plight of countless refugees who had little more than the clothes on their backs. Additionally, he remembers the hunger he experienced on the front lines, leading him to fight for the rations of fallen soldiers.
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Landing at Inchon
Philip E. Hahn vividly describes his experience as part of the first wave of the Inchon Landing. Initially encountering little resistance, the situation grew more perilous as they advanced inland. He recounts the tragic death of one of his commanding officers, who perished while attempting to destroy a Chinese pillbox with a flame thrower. His initial memories are of people living in abject poverty, with nothing to their name.
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From Inchon to Seoul and on to Pusan
Philip E. Hahn remembers encountering minimal resistance leaving Inchon until they entered Seoul. Describing Seoul as severely damaged, with nearly everything destroyed, he recalls taking cover in a pigpen to avoid gunfire during the night. Though he didn't expect to survive, he expressed gratitude for being a Marine.
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