August 1951. Yangku, Korea. A team of U.S. Army soldiers supported by Korean Service Corps members shoulder a load up the steep slopes of a hill. They may be carrying mortars and related ammunition. It was imperative to occupy and fortify high ground if the surrounding territory were to be held. Such heights were almost always inaccessible by mechanized transport. Helicopters in 1951 were not yet available in sufficient numbers (or payload capacity) to ease the foot soldiers' burden. Domesticated oxen would do, if available. If not, strong backs and many hands were the solution.
No comments:
Post a Comment