The Korean War 1952 – 1953
‘Just my luck my name beginning with “L”: it’ll be down at the bottom of t’war memorial with all the dogs cocking their legs on it.’ The 1st Battalion The Duke of Wellington’s Regiment, largely made up of National Servicemen went to war once again.
The 1st Battalion set sail for Korea at the end of September 1952 to join the 1st Commonwealth Division. This was a part of the United Nations decision to support the United States in resisting the invasion of South Korea by its Communist neighbours from the North.
The Battalion joined the Division at the end of September and soon found themselves in the front line. In May 1953, with the Battalion occupying a position called the Hook, The Dukes once again found themselves involved in serious military action. On the night of the 28th/29th May, following a huge artillery barrage, wave after wave of Chinese troops attacked British on the Hook. Initially knocked back, the Dukes under their Commanding Officer Lt Colonel Bunbury DSO fought back vehemently; with two platoons fighting their way back up the line to regain the original D Company trenches that were temporarily being held by the enemy.
Throughout the battle the Dukes were subjected to endless barrages of artillery fire followed by swarms of Chinese troops. Being highly trained, well motivated, aware of the importance of their position and above all Regimentally proud meant the Dukes performed admirably on the Hook.
Brigadier Kendrew, Commander 29 Infantry Brigade stated on visiting the battlefield shortly afterward:
‘My God those Dukes were marvellous. In the whole of the last war I never saw anything like that bombardment. But they held the Hook, as I knew they would.’
The Dukes suffered many losses at the Hook, 3 officers and 17 ranks were sadly killed and 86 wounded. The Battalion left Korea in November 1953 for service in Gibraltar with their fine reputation enhanced. |
