By Helen Ofield, President, Lemon Grove Historical Society
March 13, 2017 (Lemon Grove) -- Harold Ward, Robert Weishan and Lt. Col. Jean White, members of the "Chosin Few," join the Lemon Grove Historical Society on April 6th at 7 p.m. in the H. Lee House Cultural Center, 3207 Olive, Lemon Grove, to remember the Battle of Chosin and so much else in the Korean War, 1950-1953.
This band of brothers is part of a vanishing breed of soldier whom you'll want to hear up close. They are funny, generous, empathetic, realistic, brave and patriotic -- like many of their modern counterparts, but with more than a half century's worth of reflection. They well remember the brutality and hardships of the Korean conflict that resulted in a stalemate at the DMZ, the 38th Parallel, separating North and South Korea. They are bringing rarely-seen artifacts from the battlefield so you can see for yourself what young men lugged, ate, fired and suffered in the "forgotten war." (Footnote to that: Lt. Col. White observed, "I sure as hell haven't forgotten it.")
We proudly present our own "Chosin Three" on the 100th anniversary of America's entry into World War One, "The Great War" that set in motion all of the conflicts of the 20th century and beyond. Back when names like Incheon, Osan, Busan, Seoul, Kaesong, Pyongyang and DMZ were as yet unknown, Harold, Robert and Jean were as yet twinkles in their parents' eyes. They would grow up to fight the hideous Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, a 17-day marathon fought in sub-zero weather against all odds. They lived and they're all ours on April 6.
"History Alive" is free, essential and suitable for ages 18 and over. Call 619-460-4353 for more information.
Videotaping of "History Alive" lectures is underwritten by a Community Enhancement Grant from the San Diego County Board of Supervisors on the recommendation of Supervisor Dianne Jacob, District 2. Ancillary costs of the lectures are underwritten in part by the Mary England Endowment for Education.