From My Service in Korea, I learned…
Eiji Teragouchi
1965 – 1966
During my time stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado, in January 1965, I received orders to relocate to South Korea for a 13-month tour of duty. In February of the same year, I found myself enroute to Kempo Air Force Base, where I would begin my assignment. Upon arrival, we were directed to a military bus where we received our individual assignments for the next 13 months. I was assigned to the 5th CAV/1st CAV Division and 2nd Infantry Division mid 1965, near Paju, South Korea.
Leaving behind the cold of Colorado, I soon discovered that the winter chill near the DMZ was far more intense. As I acclimated to the cold temperatures, I also experienced the onset of the monsoon season. Despite these seasonal challenges, our duties often involved late-night searches for North Korean infiltrators crossing the frozen Imjin River, especially during the winter months. We, American soldiers and KATUSA (Korean Augmentation to the United State Army) conducted night foot patrols along the south side of the Imjin River’s dirt path, braving the elements.
During the warmer months, both American soldiers and KATUSA troops collaborated to construct concrete bunkers atop the mountains. It was during this time that I immersed myself in Korean culture, learning over 100 Korean words and the traditional song “ARIRANG” from my KATUSA counterparts.
One afternoon, while exploring a local village, I had the opportunity to observe elderly women making winter kimchi. With their permission, I sat and watched as they prepared the spicy dish, realizing that its heat came from the addition of copious amounts of crushed hot peppers. Throughout my time in South Korea, I forged many friendships with the local community.
Upon returning to the United States, I found myself working in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where I had the pleasure of meeting a Korean gentleman who was a former two-time Korean Judo Champion, Mr. Kim. Our friendship blossomed as we shared stories and bonded over our shared experiences. It was during these gatherings that I would often use Korean words and join Mr. Kim in singing “ARIRANG.” Despite moving on to different projects, our friendship endured for over 50 years.
I have included pictures of me, Eiji – sp4, in the pictures with fellow soldiers, American and KATUSA.
What did you learn from serving in Korea? Let us know –
Sharing your experiences from serving in Korea can be a powerful way to connect with others who have had similar experiences. By sharing your story, you may be able to help others who are currently serving in Korea or who are preparing to do so. You can share insights about the culture, the people, and the challenges you faced while serving. Your story can also help to shed light on the sacrifices that service members and their families make in order to protect our freedoms. So, if you have a story to share, we encourage you to take the time to put it down in writing and send it to KDVA.MyServiceInKorea@gmail.com along with any photos that help to tell your story.
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