Michael Caine's Secret Korean War Story Revealed

[@dougearnest7590]

I once volunteered at a museum, where one of my fellow docents was a Korean War veteran. One day a (South) Korean high school exchange student came to visit the museum, and of course was particularly interested in anything we had on display from that conflict. When I introduced the young man to the veteran, it was like the kid was meeting a rock star. "Thank you for what you did for my country!!!" etc etc, getting their picture taken together. The young man was making a huge deal out of getting to meet an American veteran of that war. It was quite moving, and a reminder that people in South Korea remember and appreciate what others did for them. It made me feel a bit better about the state of the world.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I have had quite a few similar comments from South Koreans both to this video and the one about the Glorious Glosters at the Imjin River.

[@sandsandwich9217]

Ď,zzx

[@elguapo1507]

Now that's gratitude and respect for you! 👍

[@remaguire]

I had a similar experience in Italy. I was staying at a hotel on Lake Garda and become friendly with the owner. One day I just happen to mention that my father served in WW2 and had made it through the entire Italian campaign. I was a bit taken aback at how intensely this man reacted to that. He started tearing up and made me promise to thank my father for liberating his country. I didn't have the heart to tell him that my father had died decades before, but I did promise and did quietly passed the message on to my father in a little prayer.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

When actors were formerly soldiers

[@Steve-Cross]

You’re never too old to learn. I am 64 and never knew Michael Caine fought in the Korean War. I have always liked him as an actor. I am so pleased he wasn’t one of the casualties, of that terrible war. What a great loss that would have been. As all the others were, on all sides.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice words.

[@davidfraser9365]

Another combat orientated story of do or die. We seldom see the combatants or the commanders on both sides, just the dead and the dying. I was looking at my son at the weekend and thinking that he has missed these bloody wars, but has he? He is a fabulous man, softly spoken and kind. A nice man.

[@Steve-Cross]

@@davidfraser9365 Let’s hope he never finds out, what war is all about. If he does, I am sure he will do his duty, like so many other young men, in previous wars.

[@davidfraser9365]

@@Steve-Cross Thank you 👍 Son, in his teens, decided that he would join the Army Cadets. He was not enthusiastic about participating in the physical training required to be effective. He liked getting his hands on de-activated automatic weapons of the day. He grew out of this quite quickly.

[@Steve-Cross]

@@smudd71 Thank you, I will take a look. 😊

[@theblackprince1346]

Probably my favourite actor, he's just turned 90. He was best mates with Sir Sean Connery and Sir Roger Moore.

[@TheHistoryChap]

His friendship circle has been enormous.

[@perrymartin5388]

A worthy gentleman that anyone would be proud to call a friend.

[@Jamietheroadrunner]

Jsyk, he’s just made probably his last film, about a WW2 vet who escapes his nursing home in order to be at the Normandy celebrations one last time. It is based on a true story.

[@davidcollins2648]

My father was aboard the USS Rochester supporting the landings at Inchon where one of the gun crews scored a "hole in one" through the open hatch of a NK tank. Michael Caine has long been a favorite of mine with his dry English humor and cockney accent. Turns out he wasn't acting in war movies; just changed being shot at with film instead of bullets. I have an even greater respect for the man thanks to your video.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I'm glad this video increased your respect for Michael Caine.

[@Aelxi]

straight for the hole lol

[@edwarddesoignie1194]

Korean War vets have felt unappreciated and ignored for what they went through.

[@Bill-eq5ov]

My father, if you'll excuse me stealing your opening line, was aboard the HMS Cockade also supporting the landings at Inchon. He also told this story although he didn't know which vessel made the hit. Thank you.

[@georgea.567]

USS Rochester and HMS Jamaica were also attacked by aircraft during the Inchon landing

[@Splodge542]

I think I only found out about Michael's veteran status through KZbin. Michael made a film explaining all. "Too late the Hero" was also a favourite of mine where he plays a jaded soldier, distrustful of the officers, who is the sole survivor. He is universally acknowledged as a great actor and found happiness in life according to his own words. A fine man.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to share.

[@alexhayden2303]

"Too late the Hero" Worth a look! I thought that 'Alfie' was one of the saddest stories. Korea was my war but I never got there; it ended just too soon. I had a colleague, a navy man who was there. I had colleagues from all the fronts except Burma. Korea: A tale I was told: A REME Sgt. with half a dozen trucks with a mixed cargo of food and fist aid stuff, was cut off in the north. They met up with another lot RASC's, with 5 trucks loaded with ammo and a small field gun. (2 pdr?) Quite lost, they headed into the hills and occupied a wrecked bunker. Waiting; hoping for rescue as the REME' boys tried to fix the radios that had been just about shaken to bits in the mad dash for the high ground. The next night the Chinese came in an inhuman tsunami. Daylight came at long last. There was no ammo left. Nearly all were wounded; 4 died. The Chinese had gone! The silence was absolute. As tea was brewing, the radio crackled into life. Help was near but didn't know where they were. The answer? Burn the wrecked lorries! A beautiful column of dense smoke rose upwards.This attracted a US jet who made a low pass. A message was passed and soon all weary or sleeping (With a good dose of morphine.) were safe back behind allied lines. The war for them was over. The Britain for which they fought no longer exists!

[@Ramzi1944]

@@alexhayden2303 Thanks for sharing

[@thomascaunce1349]

This is such a coincidence! Earlier today I saw a picture on twitter of Sir Michael holding up his framed Korean war medals. Great video!

[@TheHistoryChap]

That really is a coincidence. Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@천마총마립간]

마이클 케인의 한국전 참전을 정말 감사히 여기고 있습니다....자유를 지켜주셔서 고맙습니다....Thank you..... from Seoul Korea^^

[@TheHistoryChap]

Lovely thoughts. Thanks for sharing.

[@eamonnclabby7067]

Seconded

[@jason-hy8ci]

Thank you for acknowledging our Veterans, and loved ones, you and everyone in South Korea are a living testament to the "Why We Fight" question, to the ideals of Freedom, and Democracy, God Bless You!

[@joeswildernessexploration7398]

Just realized this video was posted on the day of my grandfathers funeral. He was a Korean War vet, serving on two aircraft carriers during his 4 years (51-55). I love and miss him very much. Thank you for making this video.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. God bless your grandfather.

[@glorial8955]

I've been trying to learn some things about the Korean War. My father, who has passed, also fought in Korea. So sorry for your loss. The video has been so wonderful.

[@gerardhogan3]

G'day Chris, I was very aware Michael served in Korea. What a man. I love your side notes you bring to the story. You blokes also deployed Centurion tanks. The Australians trusted the British tankies drills and accuracy so much that they had no qualms calling in danger close fire support when required. This amazed the talkies who admired this boldness...lest we forget

[@TheHistoryChap]

Gerard, thanks for your comments and for your ongoing support for my work.

[@madkills10]

we did nuke a centurion 5/1 before sending that exact same one to Vietnam, so we knew they could handle it

[@angelachouinard4581]

My parents took us to the drive in movies to see Zulu. I fell madly in love with Sir Michael as a young girl and nothing has changed in that as a now old lady. I knew he'd been in the military but I'd no idea what he went through in Korea. Even though we know he survived, your story telling is so good I found myself tensing up with anxiety. Thanks so much for giving me another reason to think highly of this great actor.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

[@charlieross-BRM]

I saw it at the drive-in too. Ten years old and the Zulu charges felt like they were going to jump off that giant screen. I'd never seen anything like it. It might even have been my first time at the drive-in. Even then I appreciated that the film was giving respect to the Zulus as warriors instead of just being 'the nameless bad guys.'

[@angelachouinard4581]

@@charlieross-BRM You're right. That drive in screen was so big it felt like the Zulus were going to climb into the car. I read Sir Michael vowed to never make another movie in South Africa because of how things were under apartheid.

[@angelachouinard4581]

@Simon England He earned that title and I'm old enough to still believe etiquette matters.. Thank you for the complement.

[@trooperdgb9722]

@@angelachouinard4581 Stanley Baker (who of course WAS the star of the movie..and a Producer on it...a fine actor seemingly largely forgotten now) threatened to move the production of Zulu OUT of South Africa when some local Afrikaaner functionary tried to impose "Apartheid" rules on the members of the cast and crew... That shut them up!

[@davidcarr7436]

Thank you for your service, Sir Michael Caine.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice sentiments.

[@davidcarr7436]

@The History Chap he's been a favourite of mine for as long as I can remember. Now, knowing his military service, he's gained my respect for a far more substantial reason.

[@danielpike168]

Good man, Happy birthday.

[@genwoolfe]

My Dad skipped Korea by refusing the pre tour meds (unheard of for a national serviceman to do so at the time). They sent him on a driving cadre instead. The following year he was in Kenya fighting the Mao Mao. His Drill Instructor (Sgt) at the Depot cira 1951-2 was a Major by the time I turned up in the late 70's. He took one look at me and said 'I knew your father!' (Sadly English County Regiments are long gone, as are the skills and traditions that went with them).

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing. Mau Mau rising was not particularly pleasant either.

[@nickw6175]

a good number of reservists including my dad refused to go basically saying they had done their bit in the war and it was time for others to go, thankfully the government at the time took a sensible attitude and did'nt really push the issue

[@trooperdgb9722]

The amalgamation of Regiments is understandable..(and at least SOME effort has been made to group them with "like" and have SOME carrying on of tradition) but as you say..much has been lost. Here in Australia the classic unit names that the Regular Army abandoned have, in some cases at least - been preserved in our Army Reserve. The Royal NSW Lancers. The Victorian Mounted Infantry. Names to conjure with!

[@Ramzi1944]

What is the Mao Mao?

[@davidmarsden9800]

My father did his National Service in the 1950s with the Duke of Wellington's Regiment. He did his basic training at the Halifax barracks and the afternoon when they finished he only had time to phone my mother to tell her he'd been posted to Kenya that evening. He spent his time in Kenya fighting the Mau Mau. Thankfully he died before the British government compensated the Mau Mau recently. He saw what they did to the locals and anyone else they could get hold of.

[@fredorman2429]

I immensely respect those who served in wartime and faced combat. Thank you Sir Michael.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Nice words.

[@GenePalmiter]

With regret I must refuse your respect as the army decides where we are most needed and in 1972 I was sent to Germany.

[@TheSteveRobinson]

My stepfather served in the Royal Fusiliers at the same time as Mr. Caine. He was called up a year later and instead of going to Korea, he ended up in Egypt and the Sudan in 1956.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My dad missed Korea and ended up in Aden.

[@TheSteveRobinson]

He was in the Fusiliers, too?

[@davideldred.campingwilder6481]

My Step-Father was also in them until they became The Royal Regiment of Fusileers when he was sent to NI and met my mum! The best thing that happened in my life (Leaving NI) was due to the bravery of one single Fusilier...

[@brianbutler4210]

​@@TheHistoryChap😮

[@larsfinlay7325]

What a man, to charge into the dead of night outnumbered is something only a truly convincing actor can pull off! I have even more respect for Sir Michael Caine now :)

[@TheHistoryChap]

Smiling at your comment about the actor.

[@brianthomas2434]

My understanding is that, when knighted, he requested that it be in the name "Maurice Micklewhite" so his dad could share the honor with him.

[@harryshriver6223]

Thank you for the opportunity to learn the military history and bravery of Sir Michael Caine, he has ir rght about combat. Bravo and kudos to you for an excellent video, hermano.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching. Appreciated your kind words too.

[@richardwhite3924]

I served in the U. S. Army in Korea 1980-1981 with the 2nd Infantry Division. Among other things, I left after my year with great respect for all those who fought there. I could only imagine how the soldiers who were there during the "shooting war" felt. That winter was the coldest I ever experienced and I hope never to experience that cold again. It was said that men would be shot and the blood from their wounds would freeze, temporarily stopping the bleeding.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to share your reflections. Appreciated.

[@anthonyseymour8092]

Sure Michael Caine was interviewed by Jung Chang about his reminiscences for her biography of Chairman Mao.

[@jamesabernethy7896]

A great presentation. I really like how warm you make your videos. Well written, cleanly presented, a little bit of light humour but a great deal of respect for real events.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for watching and for those kind words.

[@puma51921]

I knew I liked him for a reason. Not only a great actor, but someone who stands up for his country.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@mootpointjones8488]

He has been a tax exile for over 50 years.

[@trooperdgb9722]

@@mootpointjones8488 Stupid laws should be avoided.

[@mootpointjones8488]

@@TheHistoryChap You make good history content, thanks for your hard work 👍

[@mootpointjones8488]

@@trooperdgb9722 Show me a country that doesn't collect taxes and it'll be a failing state. Roads, clean water, doctors, armed forces have to be paid for!

[@mikeycraig8970]

My favourite actor, absolute legend. We're literally in an age where there hasn't been such struggles and we have no heroes. Today's actors ARE acting, they're not delving into life experiences to bring to a role. Another favourite for all the same reasons is Christopher Lee.

[@TheHistoryChap]

I will add Christopher Lee to my list.

[@chrisvowell2890]

@@TheHistoryChap I believe CL worked with Ian Fleming at the UK War Office involved in intelligence matters during WW2.

[@barrytaylor6565]

Christopher Lee was a real Badass, his life reads like a James Bond novel really!!@@TheHistoryChap

[@cameronbrown9080]

What a fantastic story thanks for letting us know about his time in Korea and glad he survived his time there

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@ronaldmartin7892]

I am a South Londoner. The same age as Michael Caine and strangely enough, so I've been told, look a bit like him. I was called up in 1952 and spent two years in Rocket Troop, 2nd Regt. Royal Horse Artillery in Germany during the Cold War. I remember one bloke posted into our unit who had just returned from Korea. He wouldn't talk about it and I suspect now, suffering from PTSD. Nobody knew what that was in those days. "Not a lot of people know that." As Michael may have said. A great actor and gentleman. Thanks for this video and others. Very interesting.

[@elguapo1507]

The forgotten war. I once met an RAF pilot who was captured in NK. The world is full of war veterans, some you know and some you don't but something is taken from all of them, whoever they are. Michael Caine is my favourite actor of all time, from Zulu via The Italian Job, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels through to Harry Brown. His books are fantastic! I love him! He's everything that an Englishman can be in my humble opinion! A true gent!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to pen those thoughtful words.

[@cecilchristopher5092]

I'm a Vietnam vet, I had been home a couple of months and over heard my mother tell our neighbor "my son that went to Vietnam did not come back". I understand what she was saying. I'm sure all mothers feel this way, combat is a life changing experience and you carry the scars for as long as you live...

[@cheesedoff-with4410]

An RAF pilot or a FAA pilot? Or was the RAF pilot on exchange serving in the USAF/RCAF/RAAF? I can't find any records of any RAF POWs in Korea. In fact the RAF had very few planes in the Korean war. (The British fighter aircraft came from the FAA.)

[@cheesedoff-with4410]

@@elguapo1507 Was his name Oelof Bergh?

[@elguapo1507]

@@cheesedoff-with4410 It was over 10 years ago. He came round to the family home to interview my wife in respect of a CRB check. He was retired but the local authorities used him as an assessor. I really don't remember his name

[@trollmeistergeneral3467]

I think you will find that a private soldier in a British Army Fusilier Regiment was referred to as “Fusilier,” (Fus), rather than “Private.”

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for taking the time to comment. Your the first viewer in 10,000 to point that out!

[@trollmeistergeneral3467]

@@TheHistoryChap Just goes to prove that perfection is for the few, doesn’t it? Michael Caine is famous for the cobblers he utters. Listen to his theory on the origin of the word “marmalade.” Think you can hear that on the Michael Parkinson show. Oh, and btw, the correct term is “you are” or “you’re.” Not “your.” Ever heard of “attention to detail?” You should try it some time.

[@skankhunts42]

@@trollmeistergeneral3467 what does it feel like to have never slept with a woman?

[@bobbyperu4683]

​@@trollmeistergeneral3467 Methinks I spy a virgin. Best of luck with that, matey.

[@SafeTrucking]

@@trollmeistergeneral3467 Sheesh, the grammar Nazis are still with us. Get a life, mate.

[@1rwjwith]

I read Sir Michael Caine’s AutoBio a few years ago, he described this episode brilliantly. He certainly had experience of troops defending against a overwhelming force when he started in ZULU, one of my favorite films. Thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@dogstar7]

The experience of "Where have you been?" happened to my American father and other Korean War veterans I have known for exactly the same reason Michael Caine volunteered for the combat rotation. Namely it got you out of the draft sooner. Everyone had friends and family members who had been drafted so seeing one of their buddies back at the local watering hole would be noticed.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@FredSmith-s5t]

Thank you for your service!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@michaelwhite8031]

My old work colleague Harry Camp fought in the Korean war and was deeply effected.

[@TheHistoryChap]

A lot of the men who served there were. If you haven't already seen it here is the link to my video about the Battle of Imjin River in the Korean War: kzbin.info/www/bejne/laaWi4KtoceAm9U

[@michaelwhite8031]

Thank you.

[@eamonnclabby7067]

​@@TheHistoryChap maybe try...To the last round...Salmon...great Uncle Henry O,Cahan/ O,Kane, falling off a Centurion and into captivity...

[@sisuriffs]

My late father served in Korea with the Royal Canadian Air Force. He also served in many other conflicts throughout his time. I asked him from time to time, yet he rarely talked about the details of his experience as part of the Korean Airlift, but he once cried (very rare for him!) when he tried to explain how brave and professional were the tireless nurses who tended to the wounded they flew out of the war zones, often in some extreme circumstances. The Korean War was certainly not “forgotten” in my family, and his medals are proudly displayed in a modest frame in my home today. As a matter of small detail about your fine video about Michael Cain’s experience, my dad who was unapologetically successful in business after his service, always referred to the conflict as a defence of democracy against communist aggression rather than one about “capitalism” per se. I miss him and so many of his generation who understood the idea of service, who knew what hardship was, and who saw talking about themselves as unsavoury.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for taking the time to share your family story.

[@TimFenton-dx4xe]

Really enjoy these types of stories, thanks

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure.

[@Johnny-Thunder]

Great man, great actor; I enjoyed many of his roles. I'm also fascinated with the Korean War. I wouldn't mind seeing some Band of Brothers-style tv series about it.

[@dougearnest7590]

It won't come out of Hollywood. In Korea, communism was the enemy.

[@TheHistoryChap]

That is a great idea.

[@BobSmith-dk8nw]

One of the best Korean War movies is "Pork Chop Hill" with Gregory Peck. .

[@elliotgregory3356]

Agreed 💯👍

[@trooperdgb9722]

Its often called "The Forgotten War" for good reason.

[@andrewcarter7503]

Excellent video as always. My father was also born in 1933. Did his National Service partly in Malaysia. Part of the last generation who did National Service, I think it undoubtedly shaped them. You had to grow up fast. He didn't speak too much of his time there but I knew he was a radio operator and had a habit of whistling in morse code - I wonder what it was he was whistling! A gentle, peaceful man, I did once ask him if he'd ever fired in anger - he hadn't - and then if he thought he could have ever shot anyone. He said he'd had his doubts. But when he saw friend's bodies being bought back into camp on jeeps, it took those doubts away. What an experience for a teenager. As, I said, I think that generation grew up fast.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Andrew, thanks for watching.

[@colinelliott5629]

I was in Malaya as a child in 1950-51, because my father was a soldier based at KKB. We lived in KL, and he'd come home regularly. We'd also visit him, and swop comics with the soldiers. I remember playing on the 25pdrs parked in case of need. I still have my father's jungle hat, but his boots fell to bits. Part of history, before the country was deceived into thinking that the world is safe and that it didn't need to spend money on its armed forces.

[@ronaldharding3927]

Someone asked Sir Michael, in an interview, how he could cry in a scene that demanded it. He got real serious and related that he had served in Korea and said that when he needed to cry in movie scene he simply went back in his memory a particular night in that experience and the tears would flow liberally. My father-in-law was at Pusan when the Chinese almost pushed US forces into the sea. It was much more fierce than it has been presented even in the protest movies like "MASH". He and the others who served have my unending respect.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for your interesting feedback.

[@aaropajari7058]

Superb videos combining British popular culture with military history. History always has been 'multidisciplinary' and you display this brilliantly.

[@TheHistoryChap]

That's very kind of you. Thanks.

[@gregthompson3274]

Michael Caine had a small role in the British Korea War film,a hill in Korea in 1955,he had one speaking part,l think,he has said,they put him in the film for his Korea War experience, but the film makers barely noticed him,a great British actor

[@TheHistoryChap]

Yes, I mention that film in the video.

[@andrewsteele7663]

Thanks Chris, that was brilliant. I had heard that Michael Caine had served but did not know how or where. Brilliant story, as per usual told well. Cheers from Oz.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@LeslieDevoe]

I make it a point to read the Bio of actors and politicians with special attention to service. You shed a lot of light on his time in The Royal Fusiliers. Thanks again for another memorable lecture.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video, glad you enjoyed it.

[@91Redmist]

Wow. I have even greater respect for him now after seeing this.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@deanstuart8012]

Korea certainly wasn't a forgotten war in the north east. 1st Battalion Royal Fusiliers served alongside 1st Battalion Durham Light Infantry in Korea. Before going to Korea 1 DLI marched down the main street in Bishop Auckland - it was one of my late father's early memories. One of the officers to join 1DLI in Korea was a 2nd Lieutenant "Eddie Smith", now known as General Sir Peter de la Billiere.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing that story about DLI - a great regiment.

[@barryalexander2909]

I knew that Fus Micklewhite had served during National Service, but didn't know that he had fought in Korea. Another great video Chris.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@kixigvak]

Excellent video. It's work like this that keeps You Tube so special.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your kind words.

[@morgawr9339]

Really good video. Carry on sir. On the subject of Korea, I found out not too recently that I was working with the great nephew of Bill Speakman VC, him of beer bottle lobbing fame, the first recipient from QE2. The Korean war is a sadly neglected era of history. The soldiers deserve as much recognition for their bravery as those who fought in WW2.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Hope this did something to rectify the balance.

[@eamonnclabby7067]

Altrincham, s finest son....

[@jamesgarman4788]

Thank you for posting! Another brilliant clip from you!!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad you enjoyed it. Many thanks for your support.

[@willallen7757]

Mr Caine said he pretty much owes his career to whoever did the casting in Zulu being American, as no Brit would ever cast him as a Lieutenant with his accent.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Yes, Cy Endfield did him a great service.

[@olegprovochevitch8851]

What do the Brits know a bout recognising talent? Phu ck all!

[@ivanhicks887]

Thankyou from an America n Air Force Vet - now 91 -- Great well done coverage

[@TheHistoryChap]

Many thanks for watching

[@TellySavalas-or5hf]

In the Making of "A Bridge Too far" (1976), Michael Caine talked about his military service. Caine did many good war films: 1970's Too Late the Hero, The Eagle Has Landed "(1976), and a supporting role as an SS officer in "The Two-Headed Spy "(1958).

[@KaitlynnUK]

The Two Headed Spy; an excellent and little know about war film, with a rather far fetch, but fun, storyline.

[@rolfagten857]

Caine did the RAF Spitfire scene voices in "Dunkirk" (2017) .

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@hyunjinkim8858]

What a hero he was and is to this day! As a Korean I salute Michael Caine and all the other brave veterans of the 16 nations who fought and gave their lives for the cause of freedom and thereby rescued my country from communist tyranny. I am eternally grateful and indebted to them. Thank you and God bless.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks you for watching my video & also for your comments. If you haven't already, please subscribe to my channel so that you don't miss future videos.

[@cheesetomato9140]

Sir Micheal deserves every single bit of success he's had in his post national service acting career, he's an ever present star for me and during all that time I've never once heard anyone say a single bad word about him, great bloke , one the last of the superstars.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for posting.

[@davidlord7364]

A perennial favorite star!I've enjoyed many of his movies.Not many film stars today have had experience in the military or combat.Thankful for his service!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video

[@ChuckMatley]

From an age when actors were more than just what they pretended to be on the screen. The list of actors from several countries that served in WWII is impressive.

[@TheHistoryChap]

It certainly is. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@equine2020]

Real men.

[@donnalayton6876]

Thank you for your Korean War service, sir. God bless you. Love your movies, you are a treasure for the UK for your war service and your acting.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video

[@tomtaylor6163]

Don’t forget his role in the movie Dirty Rotten Scoundrels . So funny

[@TheHistoryChap]

Another great movie.

[@rafflesxyz4800]

Thanks Chris that was excellent. He is my favourite actor and your quote is spot on. He says it on one of his interviews with Micheal Parkinson, "I'm really a mug enough. I'm out here fighting against communism for capitalism, and I'm being paid four bob a day! " Priceless!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing that quote.

[@ladymeghenderson9337]

An amazing man! My dad served in Korea

[@rolfagten857]

Jon Blumming (Dutch actor) and Dschero Khan (living legend) also.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@SeatownFrank]

Thankyou for that..never knew about his service until your video, love his roles in his fims, well done that man !

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@brianjones7907]

Thank you for this video , I am 63 & I am still Learning New things all the time , I`v been a fan of Sir Michael Caine Since I watched him many many years ago in first "The Ipcress File" then a week later in "Zulu" at our local Cinema (long since turned in to , first a Bingo hall then a Resteraunt), Although I Knew from various Inteviews that he had been through National Service I never realised he had Taken part in the Korean War , this just makes me Respect Him even More , as I said earlier Thank you for this Video , please keep`em coming...

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching

[@amadeusamwater]

Quite a number of British actors served in WWII. Their list reads like an all star roster.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Indeed it does.

[@davidmarsden9800]

My dad's uncle was a glider pilot who landed at Pegasus Bridge on the night before D Day there was Richard Todd who was there as well.

[@BMW7series251]

What an interesting blog. Never knew he fought in Korea. Really like his films: Fave's are Educating Rita & Get Carter, amongst many others. Thanks for posting, cheers, John.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@etiennesharp]

Good to see 'The Man Who Would Be King' in the montage. Fusilier Mickelwhite and Sean Connery of the Senior Service together.

[@TheHistoryChap]

It was a great movie.

[@rodeastell3615]

Great video as usual. I remember reading about Michael Caine's service back in the 60s/70s but had forgotten about it until your video.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@AlRedsoxFan]

Yes I did read it in his biography was an excellent read

[@TheHistoryChap]

I enjoyed it. Not just the military stuff.

[@niyanlan8928]

another great video! Thank you so much, well researched and beautifully presented. Would love to see one on audie murphy when you get round to it. Such an interesting man - ultimately a very sad and disturbing story of a man both made and destroyed by war.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@elkabong6429]

Very succinct description of the Korean War and an interesting story about a wonderful screen presence!

[@TheHistoryChap]

I’m glad you enjoyed my video. Thanks for watching.

[@williamharvey8895]

Bravo, is David Niven next? I hope so. My father served in Korea also.

[@TheHistoryChap]

He might be on the cards.

[@olegprovochevitch8851]

So What? My father knew Lloyd George!

[@kilcar]

Thanks! We admire michael Caines film career. We wish him all the best and many happy healthy years of life to come

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video and for your comments.

[@jasoncornell1579]

If he ever saw the "cause there ain't no one else lad" scene from Zulu I wonder if he thought about the paddy field

[@TheHistoryChap]

That's an interesting thought. Thanks for sharing.

[@timothywalker4563]

I asked about Micheal Caine’s wartime service and You Tube delivered😊 Thanks again Sir Caine.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed.

[@jamesmaclennan4525]

Ah "The Eagle has Landed" which is just a remake of "Went the Day Well"...and not a lot of people know that😁

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@cheesetomato9140]

'Went the day well?' Is that the war time b movie where the English coastal village finds itself as the beach head for a nazi invasion? Classic tripe lol if you like movies they made when they couldn't really make them' then for sheer comedy aimed at these try Harry Enfields cholmody Warner 'one classic is called 'woman know your place' it's on here (KZbin)

[@jamesmaclennan4525]

I'd be interested in your definition of the time when they couldn't really make movies and I presume you think Graham Greene couldn't write either.

[@ibrarsiddiqi8948]

A truly remarkable, humble human being and actor. Thank you Sir Michael Caine for your service and acting career.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@Clipgatherer]

Thanks to the wisdom of Sir Harold Wilson and his Labour government, Britain stayed out of the Vietnam conflict, so many British lives were spared.

[@dougearnest7590]

I don't know if it was "wisdom" - or because communism was the enemy. Would a Labour Party PM be as keen to stay out of a war if the enemy called themselves fascists?

[@TheHistoryChap]

Not sure what impact Britian would really have had anyway.

[@Clipgatherer]

@@TheHistoryChap Any more than Australia, which _did_ send troops.

[@Clipgatherer]

@@dougearnest7590 Whatever the reason - and despite President Johnson’s offers of advantageous trade agreements in return for British military assistance - Britain stayed out of Vietnam, and I think that was a wise decision.

[@michaeldelucci4379]

There was a British army unit in South Vietnam it was a training unit or men who had experience in Malaya

[@theodoreyoung7946]

My dad served in Korea. 101st Airborne 1st division A company. He never talked about his 3 years there, but what I have been able to find out, is that he used a BAR, served his entire time in the front lines, and earned 2 Bronze Stars, one with a cluster. Wish he would have opened up about his time there, I maybe would have understood him better.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video & for taking the time to share your family story

[@mevcarter6664]

Always informative, entertaining and educational. Thank you Chris, I wish my history teacher was as inspirational as you. However, who can forget 'crop rotation in the 14th century', yawn 🙄

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your kind words.

[@freebornjohn2687]

Don't say that - I'm just about to watch a video on the agricultural revolution of the medieval period! It gives me a certain pleasure to sit on a train and spot the marks left in the landscape by our medieval ancestors.

[@richardeschallert8526]

Actually, that crop rotation routine kept a LOT of people alive, thru some very nasty winters in the 1300's. Early American settlers also used that routine in the 18th and 19th centuries. In fact, my father-in-law was an Iowa dairy farmer and also used it to rotate crops. The rotation enabled fields to "sort of" rejuvenate and continually supply vital nitrogen to a variety of crops!

[@arslongavitabrevis5136]

Thank you, Chris! Fantastic work as usual, you not only provided a wealth of information but you also do it in a very nice, sympathetic manner. All the best from Buenos Aires.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for your support.

[@jasoncornell1579]

Outpost reports Chinese to the north, thousands of em

[@TheHistoryChap]

Laughing!

[@pabmusic1]

Very interesting, as usual. Thank you.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment too.

[@DarrenMarsh-kx8hd]

The thing that I appreciate most about The History Chaps videos, is that you bring to light the parts of history that seem to have been ignored by both the education department and by the media in general, probably due to them "being all woke and liberal", Britains wars during the end of the Colonial era also seem to get ignored: The Indonesia/Malaysia confrontation, The Mau Mau uprising, the Greek Civil War as some examples.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for your endorsement. Malaya and Aden on the hit list. Watch this space.

[@drtimsmith]

Another well-told historical story... Thank you Chris. !!😃

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure.

[@georgegeyer3431]

Excellent story. Excellent research .I really learned something.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@davidberlanny3308]

I can remember studying this conflict at school, those history lessons were so uninspiring, again you bring history to life, well done!! My favourite Caine film is Slueth where he stars with Laurence Olivier in the 1972 version. Thank you for this video and good luck from Spain!!

[@TheHistoryChap]

David, thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment.

[@mikequinn6206]

Always loved him as an actor. Some years ago he was interviewed on TV where he stated that, while he wasn’t particularly heroic, he did discover that he was certainly no coward.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching my video.

[@mikequinn6206]

@@TheHistoryChap I’m going off on a tangent here, but some years ago I had a conversation with a former Vietnamese refugee who now resides in Adelaide. He works for a bearing supply company that I deal with. I told him that, while I was not called up for military service in that war I was mildly opposed to Australia’s involvement. However, after having met many refugees, like him and having heard their horrific stories, I grew to realise that the South Vietnamese people deserved someone’s help. He said to me that “if we had won that war, South Vietnam would be like South Korea is today” !

[@shirleybalinski4535]

Never knew Mr.Caine was a veteran. Thank you for your service!! My respect ,Sir.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@dondouglass6415]

A hill in Korea, great movie.

[@ednammansfield8553]

I always knew that Michael Caine served in the British Army but didn't know that he served in action during the Korean War. Thanks for posting this part of his service. He is a wonderful actor.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you found it interesting

[@schizoidboy]

I remember seeing a video about Michael Caine's experience in Korea, and one thing that I recall they started with experienced NCOs, some of whom I imagine were WWII vets - there was only a few years respite between the wars , but later the fresh recruits ended becoming the NCOs. It give a lot to think about.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you for adding to the discussion

[@Uncle_Neil]

There is some wonderful Michael Caine content on Radio 4 available now. Happy birthday Michael!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for sharing.

[@joaoguilhermedacruzribeiro6262]

Beautifully done. Congratulations. I'm a fan of Michael Caine since Zulu and Ashanti. One of my favourite actors. Many thanks for the vídeo.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@charlestuozzolo7283]

Always admire and salute Michael Caine (I am retired US Navy). Fantastic actor (and soldier). Truly enjoyed his character in a Bridge Too Far. Every time I hear his story I salute him and the others. Love the piece on Capt Mills. Never new that. Need to watch Dad's Army again. Keep up the great work.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@kennethconnors5316]

One of the best and so therough Bio's I have ever watched ,, so well done!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thank you.

[@crfrancademedeiros9912]

Congratulations. I really liked this video. This moment in the life of this great actor is very interesting. Greetings from the city of Natal, northeast of Brazil.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching over there in Brazil.

[@fredazcarate4818]

Thank you Sir for retelling Michael Cane's experience in the battlefields of Korea. I come from a family of veterans. And I am moved bye his experience. I lost my beloved father twenty years ago. I am sure that he would enjoy a chat with Mr. Cane. Once again thank you for producing another brilliant video on the Korean conflict. 🧐🤔👊👍

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@thomasfennell7838]

Another excellent and educational video, History Chap. I knew British troops were in Korea and saw action but Michael Caine being a military man is news to me. Just one more point in which to admire such a great actor. Thank you for posting.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure Thomas. Thanks for watching.

[@aguadigger]

I never knew that ! 2 years military service I always thought was a bit short. Then of course too long if stuck on rear party or somewhere too hot. 😁 Great video Chris ! 💂🏻

[@TheHistoryChap]

Thanks for watching.

[@jemc4276]

Thanks for that Chris. I had no idea about Caine's military history.

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you found it interesting.

[@davidwoods7720]

Thanks so much Chris

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

[@richardglady3009]

Thank you for telling this story.

[@TheHistoryChap]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching.

[@bonnerapplegate4824]

The Korean war was such a important war that doesn't get the attention it should my grandfather fought in it and we need to see a big push for it, also love Michael he's an amazing actor and his interview about Korea is great!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed.

[@trooperdgb9722]

Please do a similar treatment of Richard Todd! Not AS well known today, but a fine actor who was a Parachute Regiment Captain in WW2 ...Jumped in on D-Day and was part of the force that relieved the Coup de Main party at "Pegasus Bridge". In one of those wonderful "fact meets fiction" events he played Major John Howard (commander of that party) in the movie "The Longest Day." I imagine he felt quite at home on set!

[@TheHistoryChap]

Richard Todd is on my list.

[@trooperdgb9722]

@@TheHistoryChap Outstanding!

[@neddyseagoon9601]

​@@TheHistoryChaphe once borrowed my spare fishing rod on a Private Country Estate in Cambridgeshire and in a natty suit and brogues spent the afternoon graciously pretending to 10 year old me that he needed my help to bait hooks and cast properly. It was confusing as hell to have Guy Gibson VC who I knew had died in WWII, sitting next to me.

[@ludovica8221]

fascinating! My dad spent his National Service as an RAF Plotter at Sopley

[@TheHistoryChap]

My dad spent his in Aden.

[@eamonnclabby7067]

​@@TheHistoryChap worked with Yemeni folk ,here on the Wirral, they likened it to Northern Ireland, families divided, even today, good old Blighty, the Marmite of the world ,the National Servicemen acquitted themselves very well, as mentioned in your post about the River Imjin, those of us with family who served are immensely proud of their service...thanks for sharing this with us all,best wishes from the wirral..E..

[@robertpatrick3350]

I did my apprenticeship with a guy who drove a centurion in Korea, he described it as terrible, cold and frightening…. He was also deaf as a post from the tank and from taking a hit from Chinese artillery. Highly recommend viewing the Korean War memorial in Washington DC, it’s of a patrol of men trudging through winter… best viewed on a wet January day.

[@truckingcowboyo]

Another great video well explained. History at its best thank you

[@TheHistoryChap]

Glad you enjoyed it.