Rahim Gunay
Bio
Rahim Günay served as a Sergeant in the Turkish Army during the Korean War, specializing as a cryptanalyst and signal officer. His critical role in relaying messages about battlefield conditions significantly contributed to the war effort. He served as a member of the 3rd Brigade of Turkish soldiers in Korea, who engaged in intense combat at Cheorwon and the Vegas Complex. Their efforts played a key role in stalling Chinese military offensives. Rahim takes great pride in his military service and was amazed by the transformation he witnessed during a return visit to Korea.
Video Clips
Vegas Battle
Rahim Günay describes the Battle of Vegas at the Nevada Complex, where American forces were positioned on the left and British forces on the right, with Turkish soldiers in the middle. He recalls the Turkish troops managed to successfully hold off the Chinese offensive for thirty-six hours. This significant battle occurred while cease-fire negotiations were underway.
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Brothers and Relatives
Rahim Günay describes revisiting South Korea in 2008. He recalls the thirty to forty story buildings of steel amazed him. He enjoys how Korean textbooks discuss Turkish involvement. He recalls the Koreans showing their appreciation during his revisit. Rahim Günay shares he identifies with Koreans and thinks of them as relatives and brothers.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf_QCpU3Dt4&start=610&end=975
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/rahim-gunay#clip-2
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Being Drafted and Going to Korea
Rahim Günay recounts how the Bergama Regiment was drafted to go to Korea, where he served as a cryptanalyst. Upon arriving, he was struck by the widespread destruction throughout the country and described the dire living conditions of the people, many of whom were residing in makeshift shelters.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gf_QCpU3Dt4&start=150&end=311
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/rahim-gunay#clip-3
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