Robert Anthony “Tony” Smith
Bio
Robert Anthony “Tony” Smith was born on June 13, 1933. He worked as a farmhand near Blenheim, New Zealand, before enlisting in the Kayforce 15th Reinforcements in 1953. Tony traveled on a Teal aircraft from Christchurch to Sydney, then continued on Qantas via Guam to Kure, Japan, finally landing in Busan, Korea, on July 26, 1954. He was stationed at St. Barbara’s Camp on the north bank of the Imjun River. On October 26, 1955, Tony was promoted to Lance Corporal while serving as the Chief Clerk with the Composite Platoon, which was primarily stationed at Gloster Valley Camp. In mid-1955, he played on the Kayforce basketball team, notably defeating the UK basketball team in Incheon. Tony left Iwakuni on January 3, 1956, on a Qantas aircraft and arrived in Auckland around 6:30 AM on January 7, 1956. After serving overseas for one year and 178 days, he received a compassionate discharge from Kayforce on March 16, 1956.
Video Clips
Living Quarters of the 16th Field Regiment
Robert Anthony “Tony” Smith recalls his living conditions upon arriving at the 16th Field Regiment in Korea. He notes that four service members were assigned to each tent. He describes the precautions his unit took due to the risk of malaria at that time.
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Glimpses of Korean Customs
Robert Anthony “Tony” Smith reflects on his observations of the South Korean population. He recounts an experience when his unit encountered a traditional Korean funeral, noting the traditional garments and the sound of cymbals clashing. He reflects on images of Koreans working in the fields.
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The Frozen Front
Robert Anthony “Tony” Smith recalls the extremely cold conditions he faced while serving in Korea. He feels fortunate to have been provided with adequate clothing. He recounts an incident where high winds caused some campfires to spread. He remembers the tragic loss of a tent mate, who died when icy roads caused his truck to flip over.
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The Remarkable Power of Letters
Robert Anthony "Tony" Smith shares his experience of a brief visit home after receiving a letter from his father on Christmas Day, informing him that his mother was gravely ill. He remembers how his presence helped improve her condition, allowing her to recover and feel much better. He recalls writing letters while he was serving in Korea, especially to a nun he knew from his hometown.
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Bringing Recognition to the Forgotten: Supporting Those in Need
Robert Anthony “Tony” Smith reflects on his experience of returning home from the war. He explains why Korean War veterans did not receive the same level of recognition as veterans of World War I and World War II. He shares his story of assisting a Korean man and his family who were living in New Zealand after the war.
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South Korea’s Enduring Gratitude for Veterans
Robert Anthony “Tony” Smith notes how generous the Korean government and its people are toward veterans. He expresses that South Korea's deep respect for Korean War veterans is quite touching. He remembers how civilians offered veterans their seats on buses when he visited South Korea years later.
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Video Transcript