John Booth gives a gripping account of his service as a Wireless Operator for the Royal Signals during the Korean War. In 1950, after following in his family's footsteps as a grocer, John decided to volunteer for the Royal Signals as part of his National Service. He began his training at Catterick Garrison, lasting six months before being sent to Harwich where he joined the newly formed 1st Commonwealth Division. In 1951, he found himself boarding the Orwell, setting sail for Korea to join the war effort. John recalls seeing a substantial amount of smoke in Pusan upon their arrival, believing it was related to the conflict, though this was not the case. Reaching the frontage, his crew was placed near the Imjin River behind the infantry line, attached to three mortar batteries. His responsibility was to receive signals for chosen targets and call the batteries to fire at said targets across the battlefield. He reflects on the difficult living conditions of their camp: from cold tents to limited washing facilities, compounded by the fact they received no downtime in Korea until the end of their service. Despite these inconveniences, John maintained a dutiful air throughout. Reflecting on his experience, John was content with his contribution to the war, remembering the support and gratitude given by the Korean people for helping them during a tumultuous time. His interview gives insight into the bravery and loyalty demonstrated by British soldiers who volunteered to provide succour in the Korean conflict.

George Hodkinson left school with little education but secured work as an apprentice boilermaker before National Service caught up with him. To his father’s fury, he persuaded his grandmother to sign his papers and soon found himself in uniform with the East Surrey Regiment, before transferring to the Royal Fusiliers. After training at Brentwood, he sailed east to a conflict few knew much about — the Korean War.

As a radio operator on the 38th Parallel, George served alongside Officer Hoare, sharing both the routine of trench life and the sudden dangers of combat. During Operation Pimlico in November 1952, those dangers became starkly real. When Hoare was killed, George was forced to take charge, recalling the desperate fighting in vivid detail before being knocked unconscious and captured.

What followed was a gruelling 300-mile trek to Camp 2A in North Korea, where he endured captivity until his release in the Little Switch of 1953. His interview recalls not only hardship but also kindness, resilience, and the unforgettable moment of returning home to embrace his mother.

George Hodkinson passed away on 11 January 2024.