Random Jottings on Life at the Front

Enemy Intelligence and propaganda

Here it might be useful to interpose and say the Chinese were past masters both at intelligence and propaganda. Whenever one of our infantry units was about to do an overnight rotation, a well spoken English voice would be transmitted by loud-speakers across to our lines, welcoming the unit due to take over the position.

Similarly, a Chinese woman would (in English) remind us of our loved ones at home and of the fat capitalists who were making a lot of money at our expense. Propaganda pamphlets were extensively used by both sides, and I collected a good selection of them to keep. Many of the UN leaflets ended up being blown back over our lines! Western Sentimental songs would also be played, normally during the evening. These did not appear to have any effect on our lads other than it helped to pass the time to when we would be reunited with our families.

The Chinese propagandist woman was known by a multitude of names by our lads, among them, Shanghai Lil, and Pyongyang Sally.