Thomas Cork discusses his military service in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. Cork was present during the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir. Because of frostbite wounds received during the battle, part of his foot was amputated. Cork talks about the weather conditions and cold weather survival techniques that the military used during the battle. Other topics include racism, discrimination, segregation in the military, working and personal relationships with white soldiers in his unit, his military training at Mumford Point (Montford Point) and Camp Lejeune, difficulties experienced with the Veterans Administration upon his return from Korea. He talks about medical care received at the VA hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, and in New York. He mentions seeing Jackie Robinson, Ernie Banks and other sports heroes while being cared for in New York. Cork also talks about his life and work following his military service, including for the United States Postal Service, starting a lawn care business, charity fund raising for the YMCA, and being the recipient of the President's Gold Medal.
From the description of Thomas Cork interview, March 2, 2010. (Kentucky Historical Society). WorldCat record id: 780680544
