Mehmet Arif Boran
Bio
Mehmet Arif Boran served in the Turkish Infantry during the Korean War as a member of the third group of Turkish soldiers. This group experienced heavy fighting at Sandbag Castle and the Nevada Complex. Turkish soldiers typically served for twenty-four months; however, due to the intense combat and the strategic significance of the Nevada Complex, Mehmet Arif Boran and the other soldiers in the third group volunteered to serve an additional four months. He was injured by an artillery shell during his service. Despite his injuries, he takes pride in his contributions and is pleased with the progress Korea has made. He holds a deep appreciation for the Korean people.
Video Clips
Tape and a Coke
Mehmet Arif Boran describes his experience of being injured by artillery shrapnel. An artillery shell struck a tree above him and exploded, rather than hitting his position directly. Doctors were able to remove the shrapnel from his body in about five minutes. They applied some numbing tape to his wound and gave him a Coke. He recalls returning to his unit and learning that two of his fellow soldiers had not been as fortunate. They sustained serious injuries, and he was unable to visit them.
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A State of Misery
Mehmet Arif Boran recounts the fighting in the Vegas Complex and the situation of the Korean people. He explains that when the Turks surrendered Vegas Hill, injured troops were left in the valley. He remembers the smell of the dead bodies. The Chinese prevented the Turkish soldiers from recovering their wounded and deceased.
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We Shed Our Blood for Korea
Mehmet Arif Boran reflects on his return visit to Korea. He expresses great pride in Korea's achievements, referring to it as "Super Korea" because of its impressive buildings and accomplishments. He says he would choose to stay in Korea if given the opportunity.
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Video Transcript