The Chosin Reservoir was Absolute Hell on Earth | Ralph Gastelum

On April 15, 1942 Ralph Gastelum turned 11-years-old. That same day his uncle, a Marine fighting in the Pacific, was killed in action during the Battle of Corregidor. This loss stayed with Ralph and inspired him to Join the United States Marine Corps in July 1949.
On September 15, 1950 Gastelum along with the rest of the 1st Marine Division made the epic landing at Inchon, and went on to help liberate the capital city of Seoul from the North Koreans communists.
By November, the Marines had advanced into the mountains of the Chosin Reservoir, where they would find themselves surrounded by an overwhelming force of ten divisions of Chinese communist forces and fighting in 40 degree below zero temperatures.
What followed would be some of the most harrowing combat of the Korean War.
Ralph Alphonso Gastelum Jr. died peacefully at home on October 1, 2022.
Recorded on July 26, 2022
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Video Credits:
Interviewer - Greg Corombos
Director of Photography - Jon Hambacker
Editor - Daniel Taksas

[@americanveteranscenter]

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[@semperfitdeliis]

I wonder if he knew my stepfather Gary B Ervin 1st Mar Div 5th or 9th regiments he fought at the frozen reseviore. He said he was a combat engineer attached to Recon

[@miav-yj6cu]

This is my Dad, gosh I love him and am so blessed to be his daughter! Reading the comments I can see how he has impacted so many who have taken the time to watch this video. I’m so very proud of him, he’ll always be my hero. Thank you Dad, for sacrificing so much for others, and for being such an incredible role model. And thank you to all who have served. ❤❤❤

[@19372]

He is awesome. Semper Fi

[@dillonbrown7999]

Do or die

[@briancallahan1168]

Semper Fi I was a hard charger 78-82. I served with Korean and Nam vets. And we all agreed, c rations sucked. Thank you for your dad. And you. We do them proud by every time we mention them. And I have been told a few times God loves Marines

[@paddingtonlaw2491]

I'm so glad you wrote this message to let us know this is your father. It gives me the humbling opportunity to tell you how amazing it is to hear him say he is proud of what he did and that he would do it over again. I have an extreme appreciation for WW 1 and 2, and Korean war veterans. People don't realize the importance of those wars and how different the world would be today had they not fought for freedom and democracy. What they see they carry with them their entire lives. That is the very definition of sacrifice. All of the young men who died, I pray for their souls every day and thank God for them. Your right, you are very blessed to have this wonderful man as your father. I wish I would have known even one veteran that I could have talked to and showed them my gratitude. I will think of you both and be grateful for you. God bless you and keep you.

[@lifeinlimbo2186]

I am very proud of your father,as well. The man who raised me,Herman E. Troester,Jr. Gunnery Sargent ret. United States Marine Corps. (1954 -1974),served in the last part of the Korean War. I have just a vague idea of the horrors and hardship your father saw and went through. I was raised mainly in Minnesota and even got to wear some of the winter gear Marines wore at that time in Korea that my dad 'saved' as souvenirs to protect me from extreme temperatures working outside. My heart goes out to your father for the great loss of his comrades. At the same time,I am filled with gratitude for his service to our great nation and my heart swells with pride for all our service men and women. What we have the privilege to listen to in this video,is the testimony and experiences of one hell of an American fighting man. There will never be enough to be said about the greatness and bravery of men like your father. God,bless him. And,may God bless the United States Marine Corps.,and all of our men and women in all our branches of service. Thank you,all.

[@lockman004]

In the late 1990's I was working for a very large corporation at one of their American factories. We were notified that the CEO of the corporation was going to be visiting our facility. We spent several days cleaning, painting, and getting ready for the top mans visit. On the appointed day a big limousine arrived and the CEO and his staff walked in shook the Presidents hand and then surprised the waiting management team members by asking where an elderly employee was located. The man he was looking for worked in the maintenance shop and he was given every dirty job in the company. Turned out this dirty unkempt worker was responsible for dragging a wounded friend (now the CEO) on to a truck fleeing the battle of the Chosin Reservoir. Both men were wounded badly and the old guy was bayoneted by a Chinese soldier while shielding his friend who was now the CEO of the corporation he worked for. The CEO had hired private investigators to find the man that saved his life 45 years earlier. That was the last day this man had to mop the factory floor. He retired soon afterward and received a new suit and a plane ticket to the CEO's home in New Jersey. The CEO retired the following year and I understand the two of them started a bucket list of fishing trips, travel, and adventures. Now both men are gone but I was a great ending to an otherwise disastrous experience.

[@ernestoherrera2755]

Is this a true story what company was it and do you remember the name of the gentleman

[@lockman004]

@@ernestoherrera2755 Ingersoll Rand. CEO's name was Jim Perella. I think that's the correct spelling of his name. It's been 27 years give or take a year.

[@ernestoherrera2755]

@@lockman004 thank you for that amazing story glad I could hear about it makes me smile in this crazy world of ours

[@xandereynon5305]

Man, I hope thats a true story

[@patrickculver7058]

That is a great story. Thanks shipmate.

[@williamdumas432]

My husband Bill Dumas was a young 19 year old Marine at the Chosin Reservoir. He was also at the Inchon landing. He was wounded twice and still had shrapnel coming out of his body when he passed away last year at 90 years old. The severe 40 below zero cold that they experienced at Chosin was a source of physical suffering the rest of his life. Not to mention the mental trauma. He was a true Marine. Rarely spoke of the war and when asked he'd just say, "We did our job". And "that job" helped to give freedom to millions of South Koreans. I've met many of them and words cannot even express how eternally grateful they are. Some people never get to meet their heros. I married mine.

[@TranscendianIntendor]

You have made the point that I recognize as what there was to it that mattered and matters so much to this day and to me helping me hold strongly to my vision of building a new nation of airports as the example of the best practices of living. Democracy, and I think of Shek in Taiwan and Rhee and am angry they had the power they did still for Koreans or Taiwanese to experience after all our dying. If I shed my blood for our purposes how come someone like Nixon can be elected? But it is Christian to die for others. Come on High Noon. If I can kill the bad why do the bad still hang around?

[@dtaylor10chuckufarle]

May God bless you both. He is a hero.

[@Hope-Truth-Light]

R.I.P.

[@ralphgastelumiv874]

That's my grandfather! I'm so proud of him.

[@Maine307]

omg! wow! send our respect and love please! wow! amazing

[@Idkwhodawg]

Is that your mother or aunt who left the other comment?

[@andrewwebb-trezzi2422]

These old Korean War veterans were made of the same grit, honour, and determination that the Second World War generation was. We must not forget the sacrifices they made.

[@metalm4910]

Much respect to these Korean war vets they don't call it the Forgotten War for nothing both of my grandpas served in the Korean War one of them was squad leader and neither would talk about it very much

[@rumrich]

Most of their NCO’s and officers were WW2 vets and a lot of them had siblings or family that fought in WW2, the war was also fresh in their minds reading the news articles and watching news reels being that they were only 5 years removed from the end of WW2.

[@kevdadd1976]

They definitely had to walk in there shadow somewhat, many of those guys served in both wars. But your absolutely correct and I feel the same way.

[@hawkeyeten2450]

The Chosin Marines were hands down some of the toughest warriors America ever produced. We must not forget the British Royal Marines either though, a group of them was making the long grueling journey with our fellas.

[@Stew357]

Well said, Andrew! Our combat veterans are all heros to me. I was raised that way.

[@dbeaus]

As a Vietnam infantry vet, I can tell you the Korean guys were not forgotten by us. Yeah we had no picnic, but the idea of that cold, trying to sleep, eat and then having to fight in that cold leaves me speechless. I was deathly afraid of going somewhere cold when I got my assignment. I guess I got my wish. But it's not about me. These guys and women were pretty much ignored when they got home. If any Korean Vets read this, you have our undying respect. They call it "the forgotten war", not by me.

[@burnssy112]

My pop pop who passed served in Korea, wish I got to ask him about Korea before he died. Not forgotten by me either

[@KonservenFurz]

Thank you for your service sir. Your sacrifice is also not forgotten and is deeply appreciated. The path to freedom in every nation was paved in the blood of those willing to sacrifice it all for the good of humanity. The service and bravery of our warriors should never be understated

[@dbeaus]

@@KonservenFurz Well, thank you but I'll say it again. I didn't do anything special in my opinion and could have done better. Would I trade 6 months in Vietnam for 1 in Chosin? Yes. Stay well.

[@Forester-]

My grandfather always got particularly insulted when people would refer to it as the Korean "conflict" rather than a proper war. He would say "I was there, it was a God damn shootin war!"

[@jameskawaikaupejrcwo3usmcr573]

My dad was a Korean veteran and a Vietnam veteran with the United States Army. He seen combat in the early beginning of the Korean Conflict and in Vietnam. He would live till 93 years old. He retired from the Army in 1972. The same time I was in Bootcamp at MCRD, San Diego, CA. I have all the respect for any Veterans who served in each of our wars in any service. But especially the Army and my Marine Corps. Semper Fi Dad, Semper Fi Marines.

[@joshsussussington8823]

My jaw dropped when he said he was 91! The man looks not a day over 60!! A true American patriot and hero! 🇺🇸

[@dimesonhiseyes9134]

Some people just age different. My wife's grandpa died in '22 at 97. He got the Kung Flu in 2020 and he had. Lot of trouble getting around his last few years but before that he got around better than people 20 years younger.

[@armandogonzales9259]

My Father took part in the Inchon landing and the Chosin Reservoir. He was on the Army side. He was wounded in the Chosin. He is gone now. Proud He was my Dad.

[@21paraflyer]

My Dad was one of the Chosin Few. 1st Marines ‘50-‘52. Rest easy Marine. I have the watch.

[@MrSmithOriginal]

My pastor was at the Chosin Reservoir and never spoke much about it in public but I heard one time that he was mortally wounded and an angel appeared to him there and told him he was going to make it as his work was not finished here on this earth. He went on to found the largest independent Christian ministry in the United States if not the world. That church is now on KZbin and I invite any who read this to search for The Shepherds Chapel if you wish check it out. Pastor Arnold Murray passed in 2014 but you can still see him on recorded videos there. His son Dennis is now head pastor. Thank you vets for your service to our country, and thanks for the video!

[@airgunfun4248]

I thought of him as I watched this as well. I wish I could have seen him other than on tv and video. I never heard the part about him being wounded. Such an amazing man in so many ways I'd love to see Dennis carry on his fathers documentary film making tradition. This time make a film about Pastor Murray

[@tiffanyfrehleyyeshuaismy0153]

@@airgunfun4248…I had Pastor Arnold Murray in my thoughts as well as I watched several Chosin Reservoir videos. His birthday was recently on April 20th. Pastor’s right arm was broken and he had to teach himself to do things with his left arm for several years. He said they were short on food and went several days without food, and he is 6 foot 4 inches tall. He has said that God did send Heavenly help for the American Marines. ✝️🌾🧔🏼‍♂️📖🕊️💜

[@eddiewoods470]

Pastor Arnold Murrey!,will be in the charge,with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ when he returns!,greatest Bible teacher that ever taught!❤️🙏

[@user-ls9nm9uy5s]

Hello Sir, my Uncle Dave and and friend of mine named Bob served with you in the Chosin Reservoir in Korea. They were both 19 at the time. It was everything you said it was like. I am glad the three of you made it back here along with everyon else. You all had someone looking out for you from up above. Thank you so very much for your story and your service. To me you are all true hero's of this Country forever to be remembered for the sacrifice you made. God bless you all.❤

[@borayeon199]

I'm a 51 year old Korean. But just some years ago I got to know what the worst battle exactly was like. It's SO heartbreaking how you heroes ever suffered in the hell againtst the chinese... Now I deeply appreciate what you did to this small unknown country back then.

[@jeanriggleman7833]

My grandfather was wounded December 4, 1950 at Chosen. He laid in a ditch for 3 days before he was rescued. He ended up leaving Korea with a Purple Heart, and bullet wound to the back, and 2 missing big toes from frost bite. He was a proud Marine until the end!

[@ianmartin3151]

My Great Grandpa was in the frozen Chosin. He told us some stories about being almost starved to death. Surrounded by 300,000 Chinese. Thank all you great veterans

[@lovinliftin4956]

My dad served in Korea. He passed in 91. I miss him. He’s my hero.

[@seanodwyer4322]

Lovin- - ''How old was he when he passed on. ????????

[@paulsmyser7303]

FLAT OUT HERO LIVING VALVAHILLIA

[@fyoutubefyoutube6927]

atleast you have ur cat

[@fyoutubefyoutube6927]

@@paulsmyser7303 spelled it wrong dummy wth is VALVAHILLIA lol

[@Fat12219]

My uncle served in Korea ,.he didn't do much talking about it !

[@MrArtmundus]

True salt of the earth. Eternally grateful for your service and I'm not even an American. My grandpa was member of Polish Resistance between 1941-1945. Toughest men I ever know, never complained about a thing. God Bless United States!

[@remydirt3158]

God bless all the men and women who died in the line of duty and God bless you as well.

[@randy1ization]

look like poland will be tested again, time for revenge...

[@jthomas4361]

What did the Korean War do for Poland?

[@yknowiknow5937]

@@jthomas4361 why is YOUR comment pointless and irrelevant??🤔😏

[@USMC7100]

God Bless Poland, one of the last few great countries of Europe.

[@rhodafortson1551]

God bless you, Sir. I am also the daughter of a Marine who fought in WW II and Korea. I had no idea he was at Chosin until after his death in 1996 when I found a card in his wallet that said he was a member of the Cho-sin few. My dad was at Iwo Jima in WW II and at Chosin in the Korean Conflict. I also am a proud and blessed daughter of a Marine

[@thekobeee5641]

Wow. Your dad was one tough man. RIP

[@marco117sw]

They call it the Forgotten War. I refuse to forget.

[@allencollins6031]

Yeah what a crime. WhenI was a kid it was watered down in history book and minimized calling it a "police action."

[@marco117sw]

@@allencollins6031 I thought that was Nam.

[@allencollins6031]

@@marco117sw police action bs was korea. Vietnam didn't get much coverage in history books either.

[@scottsevertson1803]

my dad was there, he really never talked about it much. in his final days he would wake up screaming and crying about it.cant imagine the horror those heroes saw.

[@308driver]

Knew a Marine who fought there. Great man, Rick Roberts. Passed from stomach cancer. Tough as nails to the end. Rip boss!

[@nicknicholson2465]

As of Vietnam vet I want to say it's about time we saw more from the Korean veterans

[@joelpierce3940]

A late friend of mine, Ken Slade, was a very young Marine and fought at the Frozen Chosin. He eventually transferred to the Air Force. Anyway he lived in S. Texas, and on colder days in S. Texas he wore a fur hat. He said decades later that his bones were still cold.

[@joelpierce3940]

@@FormerVicePresidentDickVeiny my phone picked the spelling and I didn’t catch it. That’s what cataracts will do for you.

[@l.b.7543]

My dad was a veteran of the Korean War; he was a naval aviator. He later served in Vietnam. He always appreciated the Korean People. America’s little friend. God bless the Koreans. The assisted America in the subsequent wars from Vietnam to the Iraq war

[@zacharylovelady9265]

I once met a member of what they call "the chosin few". I've never been more honored to meet someone. Ever since I first read about the chosin reservoir at the age of 9 they've been my greatest heroes. Its my opinion they are hands down the hardest, bravest men to have ever stepped foot on a battle field.

[@jarheadlife]

We were lucky to meet around 20 of the Chosin Frozen while in bootcamp. They ate with us on Thanksgiving Day in 1987. In 93 I met a Marine at our local American Legion who was at the Chosin Res. He had some great stories but despised MacArthur. The men that served there are hard resilient men for sure.

[@berniegores2083]

The chosen frozen

[@pauls7956]

You can see the sadness of him telling the story. Brave men.

[@benmiz9742]

Amazing and 91!! The gentleman would pass for 75. Thank you for your service and just a wonderful story to learn you found the person who saved you on the snowy night and become brothers.

[@GEFpickupman2134]

So glad to see more and more stories of the Korean War veterans, they NEED to be heard! We owe everything to these incredibly brave soldiers.

[@JR-ez3zd]

The Chinese Communist Party and American Marxism are the once who started the so called "Forgotten War!" They don't want The World to know that they didn't win!!!

[@Crangaso]

This man at 91 years old is more coherent and level headed than the majority of youth now adays. Love the honesty and the transparency. God Bless Brother.

[@dickfitzwelliner2807]

Welcome to the era of technology... every kid now is lacking in so much, even my kids. I try my hardest to teach them skills and lessons but it falls on deaf ears

[@bobdavidsonm.d.7214]

@@r.r.r.r.r.r.r. All you have to do, is look at the comment section on some of these threads.

[@ernocrane7619]

Honoring my dad 1st Marines Charlie Company - Sept 1950-Jan 1951 - Chosin Few / Frozen Chosin - Fought with valor. Semper Fi Pop.

[@alantoon5708]

Back about 20 years ago I interviewed a Chosin Marine. He still had the Thousand Yard Stare. And he described the biting cold; the quilted uniforms warn by the Chinese; the "burp guns" that they carried; and more graphically, building improvised field fortifications out of frozen bodies..

[@luisramon8322]

Whoever fought in the Korean war is a heroe specially those who had to fight the enemy during the first year of the war when the fighting was most intense and took a considerable amount of casualties. They all deserve our big respect and appreciation.

[@johndeere8594]

My grandfather said he couldn’t forget seeing the frozen bodies stacked up. He said you had to be careful picking them up because it was so cold that their arms would snap off.

[@paulsmyser7303]

He ain't bullshitting you ..it real you do what you have to do

[@robertscutt2904]

My Uncle Dan Was Thirty Years Old, When He Joined The United States Navy December 1941, He Fought, Under Kamikaze Attacks Through The War,And Was Discharged In 1946, He Was In The Navy Reserves, And Called Up, At The Ripe Old Age Of Forty, In July 1950, And On September 15,1950, He Was On The USS Incredible AM 249 🇺🇸, Sweeping For Mines, In Inchon Harbor, So The First Marine Division Could Land. In That Marine Division, Was Two Young Men From The Neighborhood, They Were Chosen Reservoir Marine's, Both Recipients Of The Bronze Star 🌟 And The Purple Heart 💜 My Uncle Dan Had Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. It Was Not Recognized At That Time. I Knew These Men Growing Up, They All Had P, T, S, D, And Were Not Treated For It. Or Compensated For it. I Have The Utmost Respect For All These Man And Women. Who Stood Up For Our Precious Republic.🇺🇸 The United States Of America. 🇺🇸 It's Not The Forgotten War For Me. America. 🇺🇸 Stand Up To Your Greedy💰💵 Treacherous Politicians, And Save Your Constitutional Freedom's, And The Republic.Of The United States Of America. 🇺🇸 Semper Fi. ⚔ PS Communist Are In Our Government, Just Stop, Look And Listen. Capeesh 👍🇺🇲

[@doobas2171]

*worn

[@ryanbales8116]

Two of my great uncles were there. They were with the Puerto Rico National Guard and fought a rear guard action all the way to Hungnam while the Marines withdrew. In total, I had four great uncles all from Puerto Rico who fought in Korea. And one grandpa who was a Marine and fought in Korea as well.

[@kwj_nekko_6320]

A proud family tradition! I always admired such a family, but all my family members (including me) ended up in rear echelon troops.

[@barrylea1773]

My Dad served in Korea and told me that was why he never complained about the weather. He passed in October of 2020 two weeks after his 90th birthday and on the day of his burial it was -20 with the winds and snow howling. The day before and after were both in the 60's. I knew he was trying to remind me one more time

[@ryanbales8116]

What a touching comment. My grandpa was there too. He was the ultimate outdoorsman. He would be out in below freezing Central Illinois winters hunting, fishing, and checking his traps. He used to drag my dad and uncles along too. One of my uncles asked him how he wasn't bothered by the cold and all he said was, "Korea was colder."

[@zegotashalom3881]

I had a close friend that served in Korea and some of his stories about the treatment our soldiers recieved if captured. Made me sick, we must never forget the cost of freedom, nor those who fought and died protecting and defending freedom. Today I'm afraid that we have forgotten the price, and only think of ourselves. May God Bless our Veterans. 1776

[@jetsdad100]

I have nothing but complete respect for these Marines. I was in 90-96 & in 1994 we went to Korea for training in February .With all the modern equipment we had it was the COLDEST place I ever went to!!!!!! Don't know how they did it

[@TheCerebralDude]

My dad served in 2/7 in Korea in the winter of 1952-53 . Dad said many Marines lost fingers and toes to frostbite

[@groundpounder8373]

I was in Korea 84 through 86. Army. Coldest place I've ever been.

[@jetsdad100]

@@groundpounder8373 It’s a cold that unless you been there you can’t understand

[@Totsrider]

I am on the USS Chosin CG65 and I have always appreciated the ship for its history and story behind its name.

[@4oughthooksTx]

This man is a part of our legacy. You make me proud, Marine. Semper Fi.

[@rodeleon2875]

i did a year in korea in the 80's. it was a vacation compared to what these guys went through. it was the coldest place i ever lived and i grew up in PA. seemed like the wind never stopped. i could not imagine having to live outside in those conditions with the crappy gear they had. slow salute to these guys from a peacetime vet.

[@dadadit]

My Dad was a Forward Observer with 1st Marine Division. He witnessed the demolition of the sea wall, the landing, the total destruction of Seoul and the advance all the way up to the Chosin Reservoir. He described a massive battle with wave after wave of Chinese troops that were slaughtered and the aftermath of the battle. He was wounded later and in the Med Tent when the Chinese broke through and were mopped up in Chesty's headquarters area. He was flown out from the small airstrip they had built. He told me all of this and much more when he was 67 and passed when he was 69. He was a Marine, never ever complained about anything. I remember one day I came home from school and he was watching the news and some radical was carrying on about what was wrong with America, he got up and walked over to the TV and touched the screen and said, "I don't agree with what this guy is saying, but By God, I fought for his right to say it". I think he would say the same thing about Donald Trump!

[@BeefCake1012]

I had a great uncle Sam who also served in Korea. He was an army infantry sergeant who carried a bazooka… he definitely saw action. Unfortunately I never got to meet him before he died, but his service means a lot in a war that’s too often forgotten and seen as a police action and not given enough credit in our history books.

[@Hahah878]

The Korean war veterans are born from bronze compassion an pride and integrity hope everyone who sees this has a wonderful day an week an god bless our veterans

[@u1kim]

Thank you for your service. Grew up in Inchon during the 60~70's overlooking the landing site. You and others like you inspired me to join the Marine Corps soon after I came to the US from Korea. If it weren't for you and those who gave their lives at Chosin Reservoir (Korean name: Jangjin Resevoir) I might not have come to being.

[@SaundersE5]

The Korean War was absolutely brutal, over 38 thousand killed in less than 3 years. God bless them all.

[@wittwittwer1043]

My Pappy fought in two wars: The ETO in WWII, and in Korea in the early '50s. He was an Army combat engineer. In Korea he took a bullet through the right side of his helmet, just behind the temple. It didn't break the skin, but it knocked him out. A friend of his was hit in the same burst, and fell across his legs. When Pappy regained consciousness, his friend was still alive, but died shortly afterward. There was an Army unit with the Marines at Chosin, and they fought their way out together. I was a Marine in the '60s, and when we were taught "History and Traditions of the Marine Corps" in boot camp, they didn't admit the the Marines retreated from Chosin; they called it "a strategic withdrawal."

[@roderickstockdale1678]

Marines never claim retreat, they proudly always say “Fighting Withdrawal” and say they salvaged as much ammo, supplies and casualties as they could before they “withdrew” from the lines. Do you believe they ran?

[@wittwittwer1043]

@@roderickstockdale1678 I don't believe the Marines "ran" from Changjin, but they were forced to retreat, or face annihilation. They were pursued to Hagaru-ri, and thence to the coast and Hungnam.

[@evangilmore4394]

They didn’t retreat. They were simply advancing in another direction.

[@wittwittwer1043]

@@roderickstockdale1678 wrote, re the Marine retreat from Chosin Reservoir: " .... Do you believe they ran?' ....... I believe it was a tactical defeat, and they were forced to withdraw. I'm a former Marine with two honorable discharges. I'm proud of my service, but I don't swallow all the Marine propaganda.

[@wittwittwer1043]

@@evangilmore4394 wrote, re the Marines at the Chosin Reservoir: "They didn’t retreat. They were simply advancing in another direction." ....... They were surrounded by a superior force, and they had to retreat. Calling it something else is mere semantics.

[@skiptrace1888]

Thank you so much for your service! I served with the U.S. Army in Iraq! I am proud to be your brother-in-arms!

[@mgunny05]

Sgt G….you sir have my upmost RESPECT and are the kind of Marine I tried to ALWAYS represent. It was Marines like you - a Chosin Few - that I took a lot of pride in remembering the history YOU LIVED and teaching and passing it down to my younger Marines. Semper Fi Sgt “G”! 🫡🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺!

[@nickames3808]

All Honor Love and Respect to you too, MGunnz !

[@richarddevita4291]

We owe men like this... no matter what conflict they served in... a debt that can never be repaid

[@dickfitzwelliner2807]

He's a very young looking 91 year old. Sad that he still deals with what happened in the war

[@georgebrooks58]

My grandfather was a choson reservoir survivor. When I got back home from the Army he told me what had to be done due to running out of ammunition because the Chinese cut off the supply line.

[@geraldcalderone5228]

Where did you serve

[@codiefitz3876]

@@geraldcalderone5228 Your mom’s house.

[@q-man762]

What did he have to do?

[@Moment-14]

Come on "Reply 's"...why press the man to restate a war story.

[@danielgrigg9501]

Toughest man I ever met was a Chosin Marine. He was hit by fragments and bayoneted on the same day. Killed the man who bayoneted him. I definitely hold my manhood cheap when I think of those men.

[@FireCrow1961]

My ex Father in-law was Gene Gustin. He was in the same 1st Marine division at Chosin. He passed away 2 years ago from cancer but he was a marine through and through to the end. RIP Soldier.

[@coryburnett2588]

My gramps served in Korea, but wouldn't talk about his time in country. Every time we would ask about it, he would get very frustrated and often times just cry. Unfortunately he passed away just over 3 years ago. We looked into finding his military records but there was a fire in the building that held all of his information. I do have a copy of is dd214. I would absolutely be more than happy if anyone has living family that might have stories from serving in the 1st Army in '51 and was stationed in Japan. I'm sure it's a long shot, but it's all we have to go on for now.

[@steverobson8827]

Outstanding Sir. My father was 22ndSAS. He used the Korean War as a teaching point. You have my respect.

[@patrickstelzer5631]

My dad was at the Chosin. He rarely talked about his experiences there. I do remember him stressing just how cold it was. He inspired all of his sons (4), a daughter, and a grandson to serve in the Corps.

[@Mr2915Official]

If anyone who has family who was in the Chosin still around. Please do me a favor and ask them if they knew William Abbott, an Army signalman who landed in Incheon, and was shot several times. I would love to start a contact and learn more about him as the only thing I have left of him is the book he wrote Blood Runs Red, White, and Blue.

[@Teresia12]

This has me bawling. My oldest brother was in the Korean War, my other brother along with my late husband in Vietnam. These men are of the same ilk as the men like my Daddy and his twin brother and my father in law who were in WWII. I'm so grateful they all came home. I miss them all so much.

[@bgmpt]

God bless this man. I had read about Chosin Reservoir as a young kid in a recruiting comic book and then read more about it as an adult. Those Marines went through hell and overcame it. Semper fi.

[@Khornecussion]

Man had an uncle named Sam and was an exemplary soldier. Talk about poetic.

[@robertwhite3752]

Thank you for your service sir. I live in a free country today because of you and other men like you. Freedom is not free!!

[@bobbyscott8024]

Thank you Sir for your service and sacrifice! My father served in Korea as well in the US Army as an Infantryman, I think from '52 - '53. His name was Herbert G. Scott from Robbins, N.C. He made Corpl. before he was honorably discharged. He never talked about it much, had a lot of nightmares, and it always stayed with him! He had great respect for the guys he served with and would mention some from time to time and their bravery!

[@Wozmo88]

My Dad, LeRoy Lilly, fought in Korean War- The Chosin Reservoir! He was so proud to be a Marine. Semper Fi!

[@Audiofreak71]

Wow I would not have guessed he was 91! He looks good for that age, God bless him and hope he has many more years ahead of him.

[@nickames3808]

Every time I watch/read one of these Old Breed, Old Vet stories, I'm just Amazed!!! And so Grateful that we had Those Who Answered The Call. Gets my Heart and Soul. We owe them everything! Semper Fi. Same to Our Army troops!

[@carolancarey992]

thank you for this recognition of our soldiers. My late brotherinlaw served in Korea in the Chosen. He survived and made it home.

[@patd4u2]

My dad was a retired Marine, he joined in 1939 and was sent to The fourth Marine Regiment in China, they transferred that regiment to the Philippines in the summer of 1941, he got called to the orderly room sent to Corregidor and put on general MacArthur's bodyguard where he was captured. He was put on one of the hell ships to Japan and spent the entire war at Kawasaki camp 2B. They made him work in the Mitsubishi factory. He served in Korea also, I remember going through some cardboard boxes when I was small and finding some vinyl record recordings and pictures that he sent to my mom from there. they divorced in or around the time I was born in 56. I was born on Camp Pendleton.

[@georgegaiennie3747]

I never served, but for over 50 years I’ve read extensively about war and combat. The Marines are the toughest, most relentless warriors in the world. What they did against the Japanese is the stuff of legend. At Chosin they really distinguished themselves, in spite of MacArthur’s hubris.

[@geraldcalderone5228]

Why didn’t you serve your nation? Tough question to answer, especially when shaving

[@BeefCake1012]

Who are you to ask? I have tremendous respect for the military and veterans and tried to serve myself, but was medically disqualified. It’s eaten at me most of my life since the recruiters told me I wouldn’t be able to serve. But it made me realize that unfortunately the military isn’t cut out for everyone, not because one doesn’t have the will or call to serve, but for reasons outside of an individual’s control including my own.

[@wademchenry1560]

I worked at a sawmill with Harold, he was the oldest guy there. He ran rings around men half his age. One brutally cold Ohio day I mentioned how cold my feet were. He then told me about using friends as ballistic cover, waking up and checking to see who froze to death overnight and toes rolling around inside boots. I never mentioned the cold again, I always think of Harold on cold days.

[@williambolletta6447]

I think back on the history I learned during Marine boot camp about the Chosin Few. What actually happened was far worse then what this Marine actually said. I am humbled that during every interview of these men, they always, downplayed/ understated what they saw and did. They are truly Legends in USMC history ! Semper Fi !

[@brendantuck8734]

What actually happened?

[@jeffroW0331]

My Uncle Thorston was a Korean War Marine Corps vet. Those kind of men don't hardly exist anymore. Semper Fidelis to all my Marine Corps brothers..you too dad 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@Nerval-kg9sm]

30 years ago in college, I got to know a veteran Marine who was at Chosin, when the Marines got trapped, after the Army withdrew and they got cut off. All he said was that it was bad, but there was a lot of weight to that word in his voice.

[@jackdaniel7465]

The Army was also trapped in the Chosin reservoir, the Army and Marines were encircled by over 300,000 Chinese, Because McArthur refused to take the Intel reports seriously, there were Army units that were in the same situation as the Marines, they fought their way out as well, it's just the Marines got the publicity for it and not the army units.

[@ryanbales8116]

The Army held the eastern shores of the reservoir and that enabled the Marines to buy time to withdraw.

[@bain5872]

@@jackdaniel7465 Task force Faith of the 7th division, 32nd regimental combat team, was decimated on the north east side of the lake. The ones of them that made it out were stragglers that made their way across the lake which was iced over. The Chinese had blocked the entire route and had ambushed the column repeatedly until there was none left accept the few I mentioned earlier. None of them were fit for fighting. They made it into the Marines lines and thus came out with the Marines. There wasn't many of them at all. It's not to say that the Army didn't put up a fight, they in fact did for three days nights but they were out number and surrounded with no resupply. Tanks try to reach them but couldn't. It was a slaughter for the Army. The Marines was much wiser. They did not stretch them selves to far so, when they were ambushed the units were still close enough together they were able to consolidate. It was brutal for the Marines as well but they came out with all there equipment and men.

[@jackdaniel7465]

@@bain5872 Exactly, it was a tragic mess all the way around, I do blame McArthur for ignoring the intelligence reports that gave him warning of the massive Chinese troop movements that were moving to encircle the U.S forces, that was a huge miscalculation and mistake on his part.

[@bain5872]

@@jackdaniel7465 I completely agree. It was Mac's ego that caused the whole debacle. He thought himself so superior that the lowly Chinese couldn't possibly strand up to (his) forces. The 1st Marines were not happy to be under the Amy's 10th corp command as they had learned to not underestimate the Asians courage during WW2. The Marines remained very cautious during their advance even though Army was pushing them forward. They kept units close enough together that they were able to consolidate and perform a fighting retreat. The Army's 32nd regiment didn't do the same and was isolated and destroyed.

[@jeffreyknight3884]

It's a honor to hear your dad tell his story. What a amazing man. Be proud of your dad and I thank your dad and all the Korean veterans for being so brave.

[@rogercrouch5866]

My father was a army infantry soldier in Korea he finally talked about it with me more as he got older . One of the tuffest guys.He told me about chosan risovior and pork chop hill silver star with v. Purple 💜 so many stories he's gone but not forgotten. Started off as a paratrooper but at 17 years old He had to go straight to infantry and korea and do a lot of stuff to get out of trouble for knocking out a noncom in right front of base commander . He more than paid for it.

[@rd9793]

My dad served in the first Marine Division and was at Chosin. Saw him marching by watching the documentary Macarthur's great gamble. God bless you daddy and rest in peace. You were a hero and I wish I could have understood you better.

[@sammylacks4937]

I never served in the military but since 9/11 I ve tried to learn as much as possible about those who have served, where they were deployed, and as much as possible the events that took place. The Korean War, is the least known to me , I just haven't seen that much and have devoted most of my learning time to Iraq and Afghanistan. I would like to extend my respect and thanks to those that were there. I will look for more information like this and learn more about that time and those who served in that war.

[@joedirt5720]

My grandfather John Frederick Schaffer was a Marine that served in the Chosin Reservoir... Went on to do 2 tours in Vietnam as well. I still have his baby blue sports coat he would wear to the Marine Corp League... Was the most gentle man I ever knew tho.... They don't make em like that anymore 😞... Semper Fi!!! Thanks for your service sir!!!

[@thomashenley2980]

Your Dad, is a true American Hero and we are blessed to have him and his many fellow hero’s who have put their lives on hold for us. I too am a Marine and have another thing in common with your Dad, God Bless him and Semper Fi!

[@greggriffin1]

THANK you sir....my uncle Del Griffin was there as well 1st mar. div. this country owes its all to us veterans...we stood up when most did not...thank you again

[@williamaraujo2603]

Dad went to Korea with the 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, Unit B-1-11 at Pusan Perimeter. Made Inchon Landing, Seoul and Chosin Reservoir. Later, he suffered from Cold War injury and proud member of Chosin Few.

[@76tde]

That is the best well spoken 91yo I have ever heard! Thank you for your service. My grandfather was in 1st marines Korea as well.

[@js1132000]

My grandfather survived this battle and I was never old enough to hear his stories from his time in the Marines. Last name was Kowalski.

[@user-hq6xq8ep7f]

at the 11"22 mark ..... Sargeant Ralph Said ... " Here They Come "...................... Powerful , Powerful , What He said ........So Inspirational And So Very Humbling To Hear What these guys went Thru............... Sargeant Ralph Gastelum .... THANK U............... And reading the line below from his daughter .......... brings tears .....

[@NateFromThatOnePlace]

My grandfather, went to Korea. I learned about the chosen frozen in boot camp. I’ll never forget those who sacrificed.

[@aaron6178]

Wonderful man. I'm so glad he had a chance to find his saviour on that night.

[@sonyascott6114]

He did his best to not remember most of the events,but still told of a battle of where it was you,or him ,to the death!Thank you remind for the video .Ya know,it takes backbone to sit there and go thru the emotions of these men speaking about life,and death!Many thanks for your courage also.

[@fredlandry6170]

When I was 19 years old I would have never imagined going through hell like this.

[@scottforster758]

My grandfather was at the battle of Chosin. He said that he had to sleep with his gun because it would get so cold that it would jam, then one night he got woken up and tore open his sleeping bag & he nearly froze some nights. He said he had to once hide up under the road where the ditch eroded away as the Chinese went by. Great man.

[@terminallumbago6465]

Thank you for bringing the world these stories too. The Korean War doesn’t get the recognition it deserves, being in the middle of WW2 and Vietnam.

[@user-xo2cf3ti8e]

Thank you so much sir. Amazing job you all did.

[@Bga1412]

I knew a an old Korean war vet. He always used to carry a ice climbing axe and a shotgun in his trunk. Tough as nails and used to scrap well into his 80s

[@seanodwyer4322]

Man- sounds like my w.w.2 father- ahh had heaps off showdowns with him.- he went mad in w.w.2

[@Stew357]

Thank you for another excellent video, AVC. These men were so courageous. They made huge sacrifices for us and they should never be forgotten.

[@Mike-gh7vk]

This poor man remembers it like it was yesterday. Im sure he relives it every single day. Thank you sir.

[@barryveale8012]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. My dad was there too at the "frozen Chosin". His stories of how he got "called up" from the reserves and his time in Korea are very similar. The names of the places, the bitter cold, "burp guns", frozen bodies, the Chinese infiltrating. Dad joined the Marines right after graduating High School, May 1945. Went into the Reserves and was called up for Korea. He was wounded after 9 months in Korea, "ticket home" he would say. He too was an Arizona boy, born in Chandler, 1927. He passed in 2017.

[@Nighthawk1966]

God Bless you Ralph. Thank you for everything!!

[@Alien_Empathy]

Amazing interview.

[@Hammy_J]

My great uncle was at Chosen and later Vietnam. My grandfather was also a marine and served in Vietnam and other deployments. Hearing their stories (what little they say) and stories like this hit so deep in my soul. It brings a small perspective that I’m blessed to have. Thank you for sharing.

[@jeffgully6385]

These men are so amazing. Very humbling. Thank you so much for your service. God bless you all.

[@dongjinlee8947]

For those who served for the united stats and peace during the korean war, I feel enormous moving emotion toward them. esp, for those who contributed and suffered there in chosin battle, I cannot imagine how difficult it was to getover all hardships such as severe cold(minus 30 ~35celcius) and chinese troops. I read many articles about the battle....both US marine in the west of chosin and the US army in the east of Chosin, contribute to korea. My grand parents also served during that time.. in kyungbuk province(north kyungbuk province),my hometown was also helped by soldiers from US. City Andong and Munkyung. Munkyung battle .

[@Solhai]

Thank you for your service, honesty, and integrity.

[@sleeve8651]

To the Daughter of this Marine ! Congratulations young lady ! You hit the Jackpot for a Daddy ! He is living History ! His being able to recite his experience from one of the famous Battles for the Marine Corps, is priceless ! The Famous Officer from my Battalion being Chesty Puller, to which we had the Honor of marching in front of his then Widow, when she visited the Base where I was stationed at the time ! 1/7 Camp San Mateo, aboard Pendleton ! Truly another of our Hero's, men like your Father, placed in such a GOD forsaken place ! So happy he was able to come back to you ! GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY ! And Thank You Sir, for all you've been put thru ! SEMPER FI

[@miav-yj6cu]

Thank you, for your kind words, and for your service. I have such a great respect for all who have served in the military, you are all heroes! My dad was indeed the best, and I miss him so very much.

[@metalman3274]

Thank you so much sergeant Ralph. God bless