On Maneuvers

October 15, 1950. Korea. Troops of the U.S. 8th Cavalry Regiment on maneuvers.  The scrub pine seen on this hillside was typical of Korea's heavily de-forested countryside.  In many ways, Korea had yet to recuperate from a half century of Japanese domination.  Among the impositions placed by Japan on Korea was the extraction of raw materials which notably included lumber.  Philip Hughes and the other Americans rushed to Korea in 1950 enjoined the battle on landscape like this.

Supply Logistics

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.