Edward Borell - Letters From A Killed In Action Solider

 Edward F Borell, of Massillon, Ohio, would be killed in action, while fighting against the communist enemies on April 25, 1951, while fighting with Company I of the 17th Infantry Regiment. These letters were written in February and March of that same year, by far the most heartbreaking wartime letters I have ever read. I’m doing a write up for the man, but wanted to share these in the meantime





Monday February 19, 1951

Chungjut, Korea

Hi Morry,


Well I finally found a little time in which to drop you a line.

As you can see I am now in Korea. I got here on the 3rd of February. And boy I’m telling you this is sure one hell of a place. All there is in this damn country is mountains and more mountains. And it is by far the dirtiest, most filthy place I have ever been in my life. But the weather here is worst than anything. The only way you can keep warm is around a fire. And being in a “line company” I have to practically live in a fox-hole all the time. And boy, at times I really freeze my ass off.

So far almost all we have been doing is moving back and forth from Chungjn to Wanju. Where over there happens to be a break-through, that is where we go to set up a defense line! The other day the R.O.K.’s let them break through here at Chungju. So now they got us here to fill up the holes.

Well this is about all I have room tor now. Say “Hello”, to the “boys” for me. And drop me a line when you find time. So long for now, and I hope to see you soon.

Your Fox-Hole Digging Buddy,

Eddie





Friday March 23, 1951

Somewhere in Central Korea

Hi Morry,

Well again I have found time to drop you a line. I do hope you don’t mind this small letter, but it is the only stationary I have right now.

Well, How’s everything back at the old hometown. Is everything still as dull as ever? But weather it’s dull or not, I still wish I was back there.

As you can see I am still in this hell-hole. About a week ago the 17th Regt. Was pulled off the front lines. We are now in the “rear” for a much needed rest. The 17th Regt. Has only about 160 days on the lines. But I have only spent about 45 days with them, on the lines. 

Last week Gen. Almond, commander of the Tenth Corps, decorated some 70 men of the 17th Regt. My company (Co. “I”) had about 40 men who were decorated. I received the Bronze Star Medal given for; Heroric or Metorious achievements in action. At least that’s what it says on the metal. Some shit, huh? But that’s Korea for you. Yes sir, “Come to Korea and in a month they make a so called Hero out of you.” Boy for my money they can give me a one way ticket out of this hell-hole. And they can take all their decorations + medals and jam them up their ass.

Well I guess I have to close now. Drop me a line, Morry when you find time. Tell all the guys at the plant I send my regards. So long for now. I hope I see you all.

Your Buddy

Eddie




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