Some of Minnesota’s Korean War veterans have found friendship and camaraderie with one another, many decades after their years of service ended. Kevyn Burger has the story of a group that has been meeting monthly for many years, bonded by their common experience.
Series: Korea
Memories and stories from Minnesota’s Korean War Veterans
Don’t Talk About It
Double Purple Heart recipient Bruce Nordan has chosen to remain tight-lipped about his combat experience in Korea. In some cases, even wives and children of veterans who served don’t know much about their wartime experiences.
Jack Haugen’s Memories
Veteran Jack Haugen explains why he re-enlisted after serving in World War II and served in the army again in the Korean War. Here’s Kevyn Burger with Mr. Haugen.
Stabbed and Shot
The Korean War was marked by many brutal battles. One highly decorated Minnesota soldier was injured in combat, patched up and then returned to the battlefield —more than once. The late Marvin Pellerin, Senior, who was a member of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, shared his story of bravery and survival.
The Long Slog
When the Korean War began, the expectation was that the US involvement would be short and decisive. But the war dragged on far longer than the public and the men sent there to fight had anticipated…and the duty came with a far heavier toll.
Back to Korea
The people of South Korea have long expressed gratitude to the American troops who fought for their freedom during the Korean War. The current government has demonstrated its appreciation by inviting some of the former fighting men to return to see the nation’s modern changes. Two Minnesota veterans who made the trip as honored guests recall their memorable visit.
A Warrior Matures
Peter Razor was abandoned as a baby and became a ward of the state, raised in Minnesota institutions. After being drafted into the Army and stationed in Korea, Razor learned a trade and developed leadership skills that helped him come to terms with his past and prepared him for his future after his service ended.
The Dog Handler
During the Korean era, the Army recruited a team of Midwestern farm boys who were comfortable with animals and livestock. They were trained to work with dogs and then patrolled the demilitarized zone with a pack of German shepherds. Roger Davis of Owatonna served at what was known as Camp Bow Wow with a canine called Prince.
“It’s Time I Let Someone Know”
Now in their eighties and nineties, veterans of the Korean War are now more than sixty years away from their military service. One veteran said that some who have been reluctant to relive their wartime memories may now be ready to talk to family members who want to listen.
The Military Policeman
By the time the Army sent Henry Dabruzzi to South Korea, an armistice ending the years of shooting had been signed. The Minnesotan was assigned to work as a military policeman and part of his work involved protecting the independent observers who monitored the cease fire.