The First Commonwealth Division: The Story of British Commonwealth Land Forces in Korea, 1950-1953In 1950 the Commonwealth sent troops to fight in Korea under the auspices of the United Nations. Until the 'police action' in Korea ended in 1953, the troops saw extensive combat - up to December 1951 the fighting was of a more mobile nature; thereafter, operations were static, and consisted of patrols, raids, small attacks and defensive actions, bombardments, casualties, air strikes and reliefs. The author has written a balanced account, covering the background to the campaign, the invasion of South Korea, as well as the initial engagements of the Commonwealth troops leading up to the epic of the 'Glorious Glosters' along the Imjin River. The formation of the 1st Commonwealth Division during late summer 1951 is described, as well as subsequent operations for the duration of the conflict. As well as a narrative of combat operations, the author explores the system of command and administration that supported the Division in Korea, as well as prisoners of war, and appendices listing headquarters, major units, an order of battle, staff listings, honors and awards, and battle casualties. During his writing, the author frequently breaks away from the battle narrative to describe the daily lives of the troops, political affairs affecting the campaign, and other non-operational matters, producing as a whole a readable and wide-ranging account. Apart from using war diaries, the author interviewed many officers who participated in the campaign to ensure his study was as accurate as possible. By the end of the conflict in Korea, the Commonwealth Division had established a superb reputation, and has gone down in military history as a unique formation - this is a fitting record of its service. The author's text is supported by a selection of photographs and a number of excellent maps. |