Getting ready for night patrol, Owen gun leaning against bunker at left, Bren underfoot at right, two more Owens descernible further on behind the right man's legs. The lad wearing a flak jacket, with
his back to camera, also has a 36 mill grenade hooked on his belt, probably one of two, and the lad on the left is just putting on his night-caller blackface.
With regards to use of the Owen in Korea, for long range work it left much to be
desired. However following the start of the 'static war phase' most of the
combat was during the night, and included patrols, raids and defending
against attacks. The type of fighting involved was therefore up close and
personal, and in those conditions the Owen was excellent. I am not aware
of any ammunition problems during those two years, certainly none where a
bullet failed to enter a body from close quarters. The Bren was a superior
weapon but had two disadvantages in this type of work, it was very heavy
and needed two men to man it properly and it was cumbersome in close order
operations. ie. In trenches or fighting pits.
When attached to the DLI for a time, my Brit cobbers would ask for a loan
of my Owen quite often if I were not going out with them on some job. Our
American buddies would pay handsomely for one when we were with the 7th
Cav and 3 id. Actually keeping them from being pinched was a full time
task.
Well it's time to earn the pay lads, some going to work whilst the others house-sit.
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