Scene from the Korean War
courtesy of the Smithsonian Channel
“Uncommon Courage: Breakout At Chosin” (Smithsonian Channel)

On Memorial Day the Smithsonian Channel will offer “Uncommon Courage: Breakout At Chosin,” a one hour look at the Korean War. It focuses particularly on the military maneuvers that took place in getting troops out of the Chosin Reservoir area in North Korea. This trek through the mountains at night in a virtual blizzard was one of the most exciting and heroic efforts during this war and is a testament to the bravery and skill of a Marine Unit led by Lt Chew-Een Lee.

Lee was a first generation Chinese-American. He entered the military immediately upon his graduation from high school. He became the first commissioned U S Marine regular officer of Chinese descent. When he was assigned to duty in Korea his knowledge of the Chinese language stood him in good stead. During the Korean War the enemy was the North Koreans but eventually the Chinese entered the fight.

Lt Lee led his troops by example. He was always on the front lines and performed the bravest acts. At first the men in his company were put off by his race but eventually they came to see the grand leader that he was. When the troops at Chosin Reservoir were surrounded by the enemy it was Lee who led them on an off road path to safety. It was an amazing feat and the high point of Lee’s military career.

This one hour documentary features interviews with some of the men in Lee’ unit. They are effusive in their praise of his skills as a leader. There is also much information given about the overall campaigns waged in the Korean War.

For those who love to study history, and the history of war in particular, this is a show you will not want to miss. The Smithsonian Channel gives us an insight into the men and the battles of the Korean War with this documentary. They also give us a portrait of a true hero.

“Uncommon Courage: Breakout At Chosin” premières on the Smithsonian Channel on Monday, May 31 at 8PM.
 

 

 

 

 

©2010 Jackie K. Cooper

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