Thomas D. O'Dell

It is hard to remember all the experiences I faced during the war years. After fifty-some years, I have now sat back and taken the time to recall my lost memories of the Korean War. It all started in counseling with my VA counterparts. When retelling my experiences to these men who had lived through the same types of tribulations as I had, who now were suffering from shell shock and post-traumatic stress disorder, I found it surprising when they related to me that I was an inspiration. They were impressed I had been promoted to sergeant while still a boy of fifteen. I guess I hadnt realized the magnitude of my accomplishments until a group of my peers, my equals, pointed out to me how amazing my life really was. So now Id like to share my memories of the war through the eyes of a child. In compiling this story I was brought back to my early years when life was both hard and joyful. So if you have the time, I have the story of a fifteen-year-old soldier boy to spin for you.