Korean G.I.’s Letter Stirs Interest in M.H.S. Classrooms

Sometime ago an American GI, serving in North Korea, penned a letter to Louis Bromfield, taking the famous author to task for his criticism of the Korean war effort.

Today that letter, with its simple and direct expression of the responsibilities of citizenship in this country, has found its way into American history classes at Mamaroneck High School.

The letter is being particularly studied by Juniors and Seniors entered in the Citizenship Projects Awards contest, for which annual prizes of $200.00 for the next five years have been offered by Charles H. Greenall of 67 Hillcrest Avenue, Larchmont.

Students have until February 15 to enter the project, in the general field of American citizenship, which must be completed by March 15. Winner in the competition will receive an award of $75; with a second prize of $50; three others of $25.00 each.

Pfc. David Hull, of Ridgewood, N.J., little realized when he wrote his letter to Mr. Bromfield that it would be carried on a national press wire, and form the basis for study in the American History classes of William Fulcher and William Howell at Mamaroneck High School.

The article which inspired the American G.I. to write his now-famous letter was contained in a syndicated column in which Bromfield charged that American boys were “conscripted without enthusiasm” and sent overseas to defend “a backward and somewhat wretched people who have no reason for independent existence.”

“In their hearts,” Mr. Bromfield wrote, “there was no lift, and none of the crusading spirit which men knew in the First World War and a few men in the Second. They were not even doing a job which had to be done. That the Chinese and Koreans are semi-barbaric peoples who raised torture to the highest refinement is not news to any literate person.

“Actually these boys were conscripted and sent abroad to be tortured and slaughtered because of the propaganda and terror put out continually by the brass of the armed forces; because an unworthy President made a snap decision; and because there exists in this country certain people of high emotion and low intelligence who talking in highfalutin’ language about mankind, humanity, world responsibility another rubbishy abstractions.”

Column Stirs Concern

In his reply, Pfc. Hull said the column had caused “a great deal of concern on the part of myself and other American soldiers in Korea. I feel that it is my duty as an American soldier and a fellow farmer to inform you and other citizens back home of the situation in Korea and just how we feel about being here.”

“I was drafted into the army like most American boys,” the letter continues. “I must admit that I didn’t like leaving my home, family and friends, but I felt it was my duty as an American citizen to fight for the freedom and happiness that I’ve inherited from my fathers.”

“I saw that the things I most believe in were in danger of being destroyed. I remembered my grandmother’s wish, that someday when I grew up I might in some way help to make this world a better place in which to live, and with these thoughts deep in mind I started a new way of life.”

“We understand, Mr. Bromfield, that we are here to stop aggression and not to win a military victory. Every previous war has been a war of aggression which, if it had been stopped in the beginning, might not have turned into a world war.

Glad He Went to Korea

“The American and Korean soldier has fought with more spirit, drive and determination that is ever been seen on any battlefield. We go willingly to this dangerous adventure, Mr. Bromfield, because we believe in the concepts of human rights and justice respected in our democracy. I am glad that I have come to Korea. Because of this adventure, I’ve become more appreciative of the wonderful life that we lead back in the states. I feel that not only myself, but many other American soldiers will live more worthwhile lives because of their tour in Korea.”

“I resent the fact that you call the Koreans semi-barbaric. I had made many fine friendships in the time I’ve been here. I find many of the houseboys and soldiers very intelligent.”

“The communists are playing on our natural desire to go home. They tried to persuade it isn’t necessary for us to stay here. But we know differently, Mr. Bromfield. We don’t want to see what happened here happen to our homes and the people we love. Anyone who tells us we should go home now is playing the Communist game. That is the way we feel for real. I hope that the people back home to realize the way we feel. I believe I have given you a clearer picture of the situation. I sincerely hope that you and others like you will have a change in attitude.”

Pfc. Hull’s letter was forwarded to Mr. Greenall by Col. Louis V. Hightower, in command of the 9th Infantry Regiment in Korea, who was so impressed with that he thought he deserved widespread distribution.