Skip navigation

Gloucestershire Business News

Former Gloucestershire soldiers commemorate 70th anniversary of the Battle of Imjin River

Former soldiers of the Gloucestershire Regiment met with the South Korean Defence Attache on November 9, to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Imjin River.

The visit of Lt Col Jeong to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum in Gloucester was a prelude to veterans of the 'Glorious Glosters' - three of whom fought at Imjin - taking part in Sunday's Remembrance Day parade at the Cenotaph.

The three veterans, Tommy Clough, Brian Hamblett, and Joe Collett were thanked by Lt Col Jeong for their roles in the historic Battle.

Lieutenant Colonel Jeong said: "Many Koreans are appreciative of the sacrifices made by the men of the Glosters. They are our heroes, and I am delighted to meet and chat with the survivors. These men's efforts are celebrated back home."

"Sunday's Remembrance Day parade means a great deal to veterans of all ages. But for us in Korea we will never forget their bravery. People call it the forgotten war, however the Koreans will never forget."

Mr Hamblett, a private in the Glosters at the time of the conflict, said: "There is a lot more understanding about the Korean War today and the 70th anniversary of Battle of Imjin River means a lot to me."

Rifleman Joe Collett said: "It's a great honour to be taking part in the parade at the Cenotaph in London."

Lance Bombardier Tommy Clough said: "I was 19 when the Glosters were cut off from their brigade by more than 10,000 Chinese troops in 1951. We were outnumbered, but we dug in on a hilltop for three days, defending ourselves attack after attack until our ammunition ran out. We resorted to throwing stones, as that was all that we had left.

"At the time it was unheard of that a battalion could effectively be wiped out, but it reformed within days. The 63 of us were placed into prison of war camps for the rest of the war, which ended in July 1953.

"I am looking forward to Sunday's event. It means so much to me."

Related Articles

Versarien's revenues halve and losses rise Image

Versarien's revenues halve and losses rise

Forest of Dean-based advanced engineering group Versarien saw its revenues halve last year.

Gloucestershire company launches same-day service Image

Gloucestershire company launches same-day service

Gloucester-based Freemans Event Partners has launched a brand-new around-the-clock foodservice logistics offer.

Gloucester business expands at Elmbridge Court Image

Gloucester business expands at Elmbridge Court

Just three offices are now available for rent at Elmbridge Court, following the latest letting.

Cirencester town centre to deliver improved parking Image

Cirencester town centre to deliver improved parking

Better parking and traffic control improvements for Cirencester residents and businesses.

Copyright 2024 Moose Partnership Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any content is strictly forbidden without prior permission.