The Way We Were

This site brings together in one place a small picture of the history and infantry weapons of the Korean War. But, 50 years removed from when I manned an SCR-300 while bouncing around in an LCVP at Inchon, preparing the site has left me numbed at our generally abysmal performance.

Given the huge disparity in artillery, armor, air and naval support, the United States should have crushed North Korea's offensive within the first month of our entry into the war. We should have crushed the Chinese as easily, if necessary.

But then, we should only have crossed the 38th parallel far enough to establish better defensive positions for the South.

No need to consider resorting to nuclear weapons. No need to start WWIII.

But our nation's main concern was self-gratification. Our political leaders' main concern was staying in office. Our military leaders' main concern was not upsetting any higher level of command. As one consequence, our nation could not easily provide fighting forces who were adequately armed and psychologically prepared to fight.

In the end, we were saved national humiliation by small cadres of cynical professionals, and an uneven sprinkling of resolute units and proud individuals. Our capable few who are always prepared.

Against all odds.

Upon reflection, history shows this pattern is one we repeat over and over.

The thing is, I had forgotten all that.

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