Korean War Legacy Project

Richard P. Holgin

Bio

Richard P. Holgin enlisted in the Marine Corps at the age of 17 years old with encouragement from his uncle who was also a Marine.  He found himself in Korea at the beginning of the Korean War.  As an infantryman, his job included many responsibilities.  While in North Korea, Richard Holgin suffered from frostbite, but he was able to recover in Japan.  After participating in the Korea Revisit Program, he was able to see first hand the positive changes that have been made since the Korean War.

Video Clips

First Impressions of Korea

Richard P. Holgin describes arriving at Incheon at the beginning of the Korean War. He goes into detail about seeing burnt bodies all over and crossing through cities ravaged by the Chinese. Richard P. Holgin's his job responsibilities changed when he shifted from a rifleman to an infantryman.

Tags: 1950 Inchon Landing, 9/15-9/19,Incheon,Fear,Front lines,Impressions of Korea,Living conditions,North Koreans,Physical destruction,Poverty,Weapons

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Burning Bridges at the Chosin Reservoir

Richard P. Holgin experienced subzero temperatures and fierce fighting at the Chosin Reservoir. After his company's missions, they would have to blow up bridges and roads so that no enemy could follow them. The weather was a major factor in the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir.

Tags: 1950 Battle of Chosin Reservoir, 11/27-12/13,Yudamri,Chinese,Cold winters,Fear,Front lines,Living conditions,Personal Loss,Physical destruction,Weapons

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Persevering through Frostbite

Richard P. Holgin experienced terrible frostbite on his leg. Despite this condition, he continued to serve to the best of his ability, until a superior noticed his injury. Richard P. Holgin was then cared for in Busan and in Japan.

Tags: 1950 Battle of Chosin Reservoir, 11/27-12/13,Busan,Hagalwoori,Cold winters,Fear,Front lines,Impressions of Korea,Living conditions,Personal Loss

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