Thomas Tsuda
Bio
Thomas Tsuda was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and was drafted into the United States Marine Corps in 1951. He recalls his journey to Korea and landing in Incheon in September of 1952. He speaks of the destruction he witnessed and shares that he felt sorry for the Korean people. He adds that he soon found himself on the front lines fighting the Chinese and comments on his experience. He recalls the fighting taking place mostly at night and remembers spending the daytime hours resting, sleeping, and writing letters while there was little action taking place. He recounts where he was at the time of the ceasefire and shares his views on the soldiers he fought against. He is proud of his service and of the successes South Korea has enjoyed since the war.
Video Clips
Journey to Korea
Thomas Tsuda recalls his journey to Korea and landing in Incheon in September of 1952. He speaks of the destruction he witnessed and shares that he felt sorry for the Korean people. He adds that he soon found himself on the front lines fighting the Chinese.
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Typical Day on the Front Lines
Thomas Tsuda remembers what it was like fighting on the front lines. He comments on the cold temperatures he and other fellow soldiers experienced and shares that most of the fighting took place at night. He recalls resting, sleeping, and writing letters during the day while there was little action taking place. He speaks of the wounds he sustained on the front lines and shares his pride in serving to prevent the spread of Communism.
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On the Line during the Ceasefire
Thomas Tsuda recalls where he was at the time of the ceasefire. He remembers being on the front line and seeing Chinese soldiers waving white flags. He explains that he and fellow soldiers were hesitant at first to greet them but shares that they slowly began to talk to them and shake hands. He adds that held no anger towards the Chinese as they were merely doing their job like he was. He expresses his pride in serving his country.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocrQSWO2u1I&start=566&end=725
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/thomas-tsuda#clip-3
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Revisiting Korea
Thomas Tsuda reflects upon his revisit to Korea. He compares modern Korea with the Korea he saw in 1953, commenting on its buildings and prosperous economy. He describes the Korean people as friendly and kind.
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