William Edwards
Bio
William Edwards was born on July 7, 1932, in Lubbock, Texas. He attended the New Mexico Military Institute but left during his junior year to enlist in the United States Air Force, wanting to serve during the Korean War. He began his military training at Lackland Air Force Base, followed by Radio/Communications School at Keesler Air Force Base. In May 1953, he was deployed to Korea and arrived in Incheon, where he was assigned to the 607th Aircraft Warning Squadron, responsible for monitoring enemy aircraft. He returned to the United States in 1954 and was stationed at Lowry Air Force Base, where he worked on the Moby Dick Project. Later, he re-enlisted in the United States Army and returned to Korea in 1960, this time serving in the 1st Cavalry Division as a Provost Marshal Investigator, where he investigated thefts committed by U.S. military personnel. He left the military in 1962 to attend West Texas State University, where he earned a degree in General Studies. He became involved in various veteran programs in his community and engaged actively with the local Korean community to maintain his connection to his time in Korea. He served proudly and expressed gratitude for South Korea’s recovery following the war.
Video Clips
Base Life in Korea
William Edwards recounts his daily life at the 607th Aircraft Warning Squadron. He remembers the frigid winter temperatures, which often caused the fuel to freeze, making heating a challenge. He also shares fond memories of building a movie screen and screening films while enjoying one of Madame Lee's delicious hamburgers.
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Unexpected Experiences in Korea
William Edwards reflects on the experience of lowering their guard and hunting pheasants after the armistice was signed. He humorously recalls a request to provide some of their pheasants to feed a high-ranking official, in return for which he was gifted a new shotgun along with ammunition. He also remembers a local man who attempted to smuggle out a jeep motor on his A-frame but was caught because the load was too heavy.
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The Cuban Missile Crisis
William Edwards recounts the only time he felt truly scared during his military service, which occurred at Biggs Air Force Base during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He describes how quickly events unfolded, emphasizing the need to always have a bag packed and ready for emergencies. He expresses immense relief that an atomic war was ultimately averted.
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Progress in Korea, 1953-1960
William Edwards discusses the progress in Korea after the war. He recalls how the Korean people used their ingenuity to rebuild with the limited resources available to them. He highlights the rapid repairs and improvements that began shortly thereafter.
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