Oral history interview with Robert W. Kachel, [videorecording], 2004.

ArchivalResource

Kachel, Robert W., 1930-. Oral history interview with Robert W. Kachel, [videorecording], 2004.

Oral history interview with Robert W. Kachel, [videorecording], 2004.

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/756843017

Robert W. Kachel, a La Crosse, Wisconsin native, discusses his service with the Marines during the Korean War. Kachel mentions enlisting after high school, boot camp at Parris Island, and preparing to go on a Mediterranean Cruise with the 2nd Marines when they got orders to go to Korea. He talks about landing in Inchon and Wonton in 1950 with the 1st Marine Division, 1st Marines, 1st Battalion and the high casualties after Marines got stuck in their sleeping bags during an attack. Kachel speaks of being positioned at Koto-ri during the Battle of Chosin Reservoir: sending supplies to Hagaru, being hit by Chinese forces, watching the Chinese trenches get bombed, and retreating during intense cold. He explains his duties gathering intelligence, spotting activity on patrols, and observing the interrogation of prisoners of war. He recalls trying to gather and protect Army stragglers during the retreat and the importance of not leaving wounded or dead Marines behind. Kachel tells of his gunnery sergeant's getting wounded by a trip flare. He discusses his equipment, living in extremely cold weather, and difficulties with frozen food. Kachel touches on difficulties that veterans are starting to have with effects of frostbite. He talks about the noise the Chinese made when attacking, their lack of weapons and clothing, and combat while being surrounded by the enemy. Kachel explains he "prayed for daylight" because combat was more frequent and chaotic at night. He touches on close air support, supply drops, and his activities below the 38th Parallel. He analyzes the Korean War as a political war and compares it with the Vietnam and Iraq Wars.

Videorecording : 2 videocassettes (ca. 38 min.); analog, 1 7/8 ips.Transcript : 13 p.Military papers : 0.1 linear ft. (1 folder)

Wisconsin Veterans Museum Research Center