A Korean War veteran from Türkiye continues to retain lasting recollections of the valiant efforts of Turkish troopers.
Living within the Sarıyer district of the megacity, the recollections of Mustafa Resberoglu, 93, stay unwavering as he displays on his unforgettable experiences through the battle, the place Turkish troopers “displayed unmatched bravery and dedication.”
The Korean War was a historic battle that ignited when North Korea invaded South Korea on June 25, 1950, concluding on July 27, 1953. It witnessed a divided world, with China and the Soviet Union supporting North Korea, whereas the U.S.-led U.N. rallied behind South Korea.
During this tumultuous interval, the primary Turkish Brigade launched into their journey to Korea, setting sail on Sept. 17, 1950, and arriving at Pusan Port on Oct. 12, 1950.
A complete of 21,212 Turkish troopers, divided into 4 brigades, ranked fourth among the many 16 nations that took half. Türkiye additionally endured a heavy toll, with over 900 casualties.
Born in Antalya in 1930, Resberoglu joined the Turkish Brigade and actively engaged within the battle throughout his army service.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA), Resberoglu recounted their journey to Korea, the place they arrived inside a month and traveled to Seoul by prepare, immersing themselves within the coronary heart of the battle zone.
Their days had been marked by tireless work, hauling ammunition and artillery shells amidst relentless bombings and airstrikes.
One explicit battle etched deep in Resberoglu’s reminiscence was the Battle of Kunu-ri, the place they discovered themselves on the forefront.
A communication breakdown prevented them from receiving an American captain’s retreat order, forcing them into shut fight towards overwhelming enemy forces.
“An American captain said, ‘Tell the Turkish brigade to retreat.’ However, since the lines were cut everywhere, we received no news. When there was no news, we had to resort to bayonet warfare. The soldiers coming from the other side are very crowded. They surrounded us. We lost about 1,000 people.”
After the Kunu-ri battle, they had been briefly relieved earlier than being deployed to a different location known as Sand Hill, a excessive hill that introduced its personal set of challenges. “We lost many martyrs in Sand Hill.”
Following the tough wrestle, they took over the hill, he famous. “Following this success, we received many medals. However, we also suffered significant casualties.”
Source: www.dailysabah.com