Charles Bull joined the Navy at 17 out of disillusionment with his initial career as a clerk, serving for 27 years and reaching Warrant Officer. His first ship assignment was HMS Kenya, where he worked in the pay office. The Kenya was never really in reserve, and most the ship's company were National Servicemen. During his time in Korea, he worked long hours, even more than during his defence stations. Bull and his team had to manage the pay documents for these servicemen, which was a major challenge. His Navy training was a stark contrast to his previous life, involving rigorous discipline and new responsibilities like preparing meals and seamanship training. He found the transition to ship life was challenging, with long hours and the need to catch up on paperwork. Despite the hardships, he found the experience valuable. He also talks about his first overseas experience in Malta, where he encountered cultural differences, including the taste of imported eggs and the presence of licensed prostitutes.

Ron Smith grew up in an Army family but chose the Royal Marines, earning his green beret after tough commando training. Selected for service in Korea, he was sent to Camp McGill in Japan where, alongside the US Marines, he prepared for daring night raids along the Korean coast. He remembers his first mission vividly, and speaks warmly of his commanding officer, Colonel Drysdale, whom he calls “one of the finest officers I’ve ever met.”

In his interview, Ron shares striking memories: the tension of stealth landings nearly betrayed by barking dogs, the shock of Chinese forces entering the war, and the fierce fighting at the Chosin Reservoir. He recalls the eerie sound of enemy bugles, the trauma of combat, and the shrapnel wound that saw him evacuated to Japan. Later, he rejoined his unit for raids from Wonsan Harbour.

Ron reflects too on everyday encounters: the plight of Korean civilians, the adoption of a local child, and the lasting impact of a conflict often called the “Forgotten War.” Returning decades later, he marvelled at South Korea’s transformation.