A Dialogue About History: Korean War

Student Question

What did Lambertville residents think about the Korean War beginning in the 1950’s? The Korean War began in 1950 and how did that affect everyday life for the people of Lambertville? Do you know of any people who fought in the Korean War? If so how did the War affect their lives?

Residents’ Answers

• My recollection of the Korean War relates to my family. My father served in World War II and was called up again to serve in the Korean crisis, however due to the birth of my sister in 1951 he was discharged prior to being assigned. I did know other individuals who were fortunate to return. Outwardly there did not appear to be any effects on them other than the loss of time in their occupations and separation from their families.
• The Korean war was called the forgotten war. Those of us who fought in that war have not forgotten.
• Like WWII, many men went and served in Korea. The difference this time was that people were afraid of nuclear war and places in town were designated as fallout shelters. There were no food or gas rationing.

Student Question

Did the Korean War have a direct impact on Lambertville? Maybe like the drafting for it, or how Russia was sided with Korea and it could have started a nuclear war.

Residents’ Answers

• In as much as individuals were called up there was a definite impact on Lambertville and the surrounding communities. I don’t believe the concept of nuclear war was preeminent on anyone’s mind. I do remember air raid drills in school where we all had to get under our desks or lineup in the hallway.
• In most ways very little except for the families who sent their sons to the Korean Conflict. Politically, not certain.