There is no way I could conclude this reminiscence without special mention of the military and civilian cemeteries where we paid our respects. The beautifully maintained Commonwealth War Cemetery at Busan (Pusan when we were there), draws your attention to the vast number of mainly young men who would never see their loved ones again, so similar to the two World Wars cemeteries now receiving their deserved publicity.
If only countries involved in such conflicts would conduct their negotiations under gun-fire, I honestly believe that prompt solutions would be achieved.
During our visit the group held a short but poignant service at the British Memorial, before Dina and I visited the grave of Corporal Cyril Bearne Royal Signals, attached to the 1st Battalion Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders.
On the 23rd September 1950 during the Battle of Hill 282, they suffered a “friendly fire” incident by Mustang aircraft, when napalm bombs were dropped on them. I believe the casualties were 17 killed with 76 wounded.
I have witnessed a napalm attack on a Chinese position, where it was laid near the top of the hill and slowly gravitated downward burning anyone or thing in its way.
Cyril‘s home was in Newton Abbot, not far from where we live, so before we re-visited Korea in 1999 I made a special effort to find any living relative. Fortunately I met up with Fred, his uncle, who happened to be the Secretary of the N. A. Branch of the British Legion. With his blessing, we placed a small wooden cross and red poppy on Cyril’s beautifully maintained grave and took some photos. On our return, I gave Frank the photos and one has been framed and hung on their club wall.
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