 |
C.D. (Cho, Dong Yun) had been selling firewood when war broke out along the frontline in Korea. As a reservist in the military, he decided to apply to the Army Makeshift Officer Training Course. Graduating from the course, C.D. became a second lieutenant. Once he was united with his troops, he used his training, common sense, and philosophical ideas to inspire his men. He distinguished himself with his service and was great at leading reconnaissance missions.
C.D.’s ability to use forethought in preparation for battle and as a leader of his troops helped his men survive even when their advanced position was overrun by the enemy. This same type of thinking not only saved his men from a trap but also allowed them to soundly defeat the enemy. C.D. earned several medals during his service and eventually began living with a woman he met while soldiering despite already having a family. In his last years, he painted and reflected upon his actions during the war.
Cho’s account of the soldiering life of C.D. is based on a real-life hero. The descriptions of the state of the nation at the time and the actual battles feel authentic and engaging. The author gives an intimate look into the thoughts of everyday citizens caught in the political turmoil of the war. Anyone interested in the subject will find not only the military aspect exciting but also the perspective of a native Korean during the time rather thought-provoking. The overall effectiveness of the narrative would have been enhanced by some additional editing for English language discrepancies, but these issues are only a minor distraction. Fans of military history will undoubtedly welcome this memorable and entertaining look into the life of a Korean soldier.