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This page is graphically intense with long load times due to photos. However, the photos and narratives by the men who served at Osan Air Base makes the wait well worthwhile. The opinions expressed are those of the author and in no way represents any official statement of Osan AB or the USAF.

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If you wish to listen to some golden oldies from 1940s-1990s, click on the selection on the list below. There are about 80 full-length songs to choose from. (NOTE: Song audio degraded due to space limitations, but adequate for computer listening.) Click For Music 1940s: Billie Holiday_As Time Goes By 1940s: Kate Smith_God Bless America 1940s: Mills Brothers_Glow Worm 1950s: Big Bopper_Chantilly Lace 1950s: Bill Haley Comets_Youre Never Too Old To Rock 1950s: Coasters_Yakety Yak 1950s: Danny And TheJuniors_At The Hop 1950s: Del Shannon_Handyman 1950s: Doris Day_By The Light Of The Silvery Moon 1950s: Fats Domino_I Hear You Knockin 1950s: Freddie Canon_Palisades Park 1950s: Nat King Cole_Ramblin Rose 1950s: Pat Boone_Love Letters In The Sand 1950s: Red Skelton_Pledge Of Allegiance 1950s: Ricky Nelson_Listen To The Rhythm Of The Falling Rain 1950s: Ritchie Valens_Boney Maronie 1950s: Ritchie Valens_Donna 1950s: Ritchie Valens_LaBamba 1960s: Beach Boys_Surfin USA 1960s: Beach Boys_Barbara Ann 1960s: Beatles_Strawberry Fields Forever 1960s: Bobby Vee_Go Away Little Girl 1960s: Chubby Checker_The Twist 1960s: Chuck Berry_Johnny Be Good 1960s: Crosby Stills Nash_Teach Your Children 1960s: Dean Martin_Make The World Go Away 1960s: Elvis Presley_Blue Suede Shoes 1960s: Elvis Presley_Love Me Tender 1960s: Harry Belafonte_Day O 1960s: James Darren_Goodbye Cruel World 1960s: Johnny Mathis_Chances Are 1960s: Kingsman_Louie Louie 1960s: Marcels_Blue Moon 1960s: Marvin Gaye_Lets Get It On 1960s: Paul Anka_Put Your Head On My Shoulder 1960s: Harry Belafonte_Day O 1960s: Righteous Brothers_Youve Lost That Loving Feeling 1960s: Johnny Mathis_Chances Are 1960s: Peter Paul Mary_The Marvelous Toy 1960s: Roy Orbison_Only The Lonely 1960s: Roy Orbison_Pretty Woman 1960s: Sam The Sham_Wooly Bully 1960s: Shirelles_Soldier Boy 1960s: Silhouettes_Get AJ ob 1960s: Simon And Garfunkel_Bridge Over Troubled Waters 1960s: Thunderbirds_Hippy Hippy Shake 1960s: Tony Bennett_San Francisco 1960s: Ventures_Apache 1970s: Bette Midler_The Rose 1970s: Cher_If I Could Turn Back Time 1970s: Commodores_Three Times A Lady 1970s: Crystal Gayle_Ill Do It All Over Again 1970s: Dione Warwick_Ill Never Love This Way Again 1970s: Engelbert Humperdink_Release Me 1950s: Fleetwoods_Mr Blue 1970s: Lovin Spoonful_Rain On The Roof 1970s: Mamas And Papas_Age Of Aquarius 1970s: Mamas And Papas_California Dreaming 1970s: Mamas And Papas_Monday Monday 1970s: Tina Turner_Whats Love Got To Do With It 1970s: Tony Orlando And Dawn_Tie A Yellow Ribbon 1970s: Troggs_Wild Thing 1980s: Aaron Neville Linda Ronstadt_All My Life 1980s: Bruce Springsteen_Born In The USA 1980s: Kenny Loggins_Footloose 1980s: Kim Carnes_Betty Davis Eyes 1980s: Kris Kristofferson_Loving Her Was Easier 1980s: Lee Greenwood_God Bless The USA 1980s: LindaRonstadt_Desperado 1980s: Linda Ronstadt_Thatll Be The Day 1980s: Marie Osmond Dan Seals_Meet Me In Montana 1980s: Michael Jackson_Billie Jean 1980s: Michael Jackson_You Are Not Alone 1980s: Michael Jackson And Friends_We Are The World 1980s: Michael Jackson_Ill Be There 1980s: Phil Collins_In The Air Tonight 1980s: Ricky Nelson_Garden Party 1980s: Ronnie Milsap_Lost In The 50s Tonight 1990s: Kenny G_Auld Lang Syne 1990s: Luther Vandross_Id Rather 1990s: Ricky Martin_Livin La Vida Loca Free JavaScripts provided by The JavaScript Source

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OSAN AIR BASE AND THE SONGTAN AREA 1953-1954

View of Osan AB (USAF Photo)

THIS IS A WORK IN-PROGRESS AND FACTS ARE BEING ADDED/DELETED DURING THIS PROCESS. THIS IS NOT A COMPLETED HISTORY.

1953:

Jwadong Methodist Church (1953) The Jwadong Methodist Church sits at the top of the ridge along Terminal Ridge Road (with the express bus terminal at the bottom). The Church has been in the same location since 15 Oct 1953 -- though it has undergone reconstruction over the years from a wood structure to a concrete building to the modern multi-story church today. In Feb 1980, they built a new church on the spot where the present church is located at 768 Jisan-dong, Songtan City; and in 1996 it underwent a major renovation. In 2004, the Jwadong Education Center with its parking lot was opened across the street. The church no longer commands an uninterrupted view as when it was first built in 1953 standing alone at the top of the hill. Now Songtan has literally grown up around it as it has become the center of activities for its congregation of 900.


(L) Jwadong Methodist Church (R) Jwadong Methodist Education Center (Sep 2006) (Kalani O'Sullivan)


(L) Entrance to church worship area (R) Church Office at Street Level (Sep 2006) (Kalani O'Sullivan)


Jwadong Methodist Office Staff: (L) Shim Sun-sok (R) Chan He-ok (Sep 2006) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

The Methodist Church has been in Korea since the 1880s, there were many obstacles during the Japanese colonial period. After all, they became one as the autonomous Chosun Methodist Church under Korean management on 2 December 1930. After the liberation from Japanese colonial pressure on August 15, 1945, the Korean Methodist Church suffered from division for a few years, but it was reunited in 1949 when Rev. Kim, Yoo-Soon was elected as bishop. However, with the break-out of the Korean War on June 25, 1950 the Korean Methodist Church had to go through a time of severe hardship. Many church leaders including Bishop Kim were either kidnapped or executed by the North Korean Army, and many church buildings were destroyed. (Source: The Korean Methodist Church.)


Blowup of Aerial Photo of Jwadong and Jijangdong areas. (1952) (51st FW Photo)

In 1952 as the Shinjang Road was still under construction. Chicol-ni (Chicolville) had not yet started to expand -- and the massive influx of North Korean refugees seeking work had not started. In the aerial photo above, there are two intersecting lines to the right. The line that runs left-right in the upper right hand corner is the Shinjang Road. This intersects in an "x" with the railspur that leads to the Bravo Gate area of the K-55 base. The curved line that intersects both the Shinjang Road and the railspur is the Kyongbu Railroad. One can follow the Kyongbu Railroad to the left running parallel with the MSR-1 (Main Supply Route 1). The Shinjang Road touches the right edge. This is the old Mokchon railroad crossing where the Shinjang Road joins the MSR-1. The MSR-1 runs from there to the left where it passes Jwadong and then Jijangdong at the lower left corner. The Jwadong Methodist Church had not been built when this photo was taken. If one goes to the curve of the MSR-1 that is the top of the hill. The 1977 Overpass was built from the point where the Kyongbu Railroad and railspur connect. If you draw a line parallel to the Shinjang Road, it will intersect the MSR-1 at the hill where the Jwadong Methodist Church would be built. The original structure was built along the path that led down the hill.

Prior to 1952, prayer meetings were held in various houses in the Jwadong area, but no denomination or group name was assigned. According to Songtan Shin Hung Kyohwi 40th Anniversary Edition (1952-1992), Rev. Choi Hak-seong met with Chaplain Feine from K-55 to discuss starting a Methodist church in 1952. On 15 Mar 1952, a meeting was held at the home of An Choon-ja that was attended by Choi Hak-seong and ten other members to discuss the formation of a church. On 17 Sep 1952, they formed the Jwadong Methodist Church (Jwadong Kamri Kyohwi) -- also called the Weslyan Church (Weslieum Kamuri Kyohwi). Kim Gi-hyuk became an elder. (NOTE: The Methodist Church is a denomination derived from the Wesleyan revival of the Church of England stressing personal and social morality. The strongest Methodist church in the world is probably now in South Korea. There are many Korean-language Methodist churches in North America catering to Korean-speaking immigrants, not all of which are named as Methodist. There are several denominations which are of Wesleyan/Methodist heritage, but not explicitly Methodist.)

(NOTE: In the 18th FBW History Jul-Dec 1952, there is no mention of a "Feine" as a base chaplain. Chaplin (Capt) John J. Scahill (1952-1953) was replaced by Chaplin (Major) George M. Rinkowski (Jan 1953-Apr 1954) as the Wing Chaplin. The South African Air Force Chaplin was Chaplin C. Scott Shaw (1952-1953). (Source: History of 18th FBW (1 July 1952 - 31 December 1952).)

However, at the same time, we know that the Methodist Board of Missions also was interested in starting churches in Korea -- and therefore, overseas funds would have been provided through the 18th FBW Chaplain's Office to start such missions and churches. Between Jan-Jun 1954, $600 was "contributed to the Methodist Board of Missions for work in Korea, and $420 to various other organizations in the interest of missions." (Source: History of the 18th Fighter Bomber Wing, 1 January 1954 to 30 June 1954.) We also know from the Shin Hung Church history that there were only two Methodist churches in Songtan at the time. This would have been the Jwadong Methodist Church and the Shin Hung Church.

As an added note, there seems to be a discrepancy in the shared historical start date of Jwadong Methodist Church. The Songtan Shin Hung Kyohwi 40th Anniversary Edition (1952-1992) stated that the Jwadong church started on 15 Mar 1952, while the Jwadong Methodist stated that their church started in 15 Oct 1953. This is only a minor point that deals with the "bragging rights" of which is the oldest church in the Songtan area. At this time, Jwadong Methodist Church is viewed as the oldest church in Songtan because of Shin Hung's admission that it was an off-shoot of the church -- despite the conflicting dates. However, if one considers Seojong-ni as part of the old Songtan City limits, the Seojong-ni Catholic Church (St. Theresa's) is by far the oldest church in the area starting in 1938.

Though the two churches share common roots, the Jwadong Methodist Church is firm in maintaining that their history is distinct and separate from the Shin Hung Presbyterian Church. It should be noted that ministers in the Methodist Church are assigned to churches by bishops, distinguishing it from presbyterian government. Methodist denominations typically give lay members representation at regional and national meetings (conferences) at which the business of the church is conducted, making it different from episcopalian government. This connectional organizational model differs further from the congregational model, for example of Baptist, and Congregationalist Churches, among others.)

Kim Yung-chul, the first pastor of the Seojongni Kamri Church, also began ministering to the Koreans onbase at K-55 making him the earliest Korean minister associated with K-55. According to 18th FBW History in 1954, "Beginning in April, regular worship services were conducted at K-55 for Indigenous Personnel by Kim Yung Chul, Korean Minister. For the past month the same minister has been conducting a week-day Bible Class." (Source: History of the 18th Fighter Bomber Wing, 1 January 1954 to 30 June 1954.)

During the 1950s, there were numerous contacts between the K-55 chaplains and the civilian clergy -- as evidenced by Rev. Kim Yung-chul's ministering to Koreans on-base. Small monetary donations from K-55 chaplains were funneled to the civilian clergy to the assist in missionary work in Korea. The K-55 chaplains on numerous occasions interceded for the donation of base scrap materials for the construction of the local church building projects. Wood and corrugated iron sheets from base resources were routinely donated to church and school building projects in the area. In addition, during the 1950s, bulldozers from K-55 also aided in leveling lands for the construction of churches while bulldozing dirt roads in the off-base areas.

In April 1954, the ground was purchased at 263 bunji (address) though no structure was erected at the time. At the time, the hill was covered with pine trees. (Source: Jwadong Chronological History, 2002) According to aerial photos in 1952, there was a trail that curved diagonally down the hill. This trail would later become the Terminal Ridge Road (though the route was straightened). The sides of the hill would not have many houses until the late 1970s -- and these few structures were located near the top the hill.

Later in 1954, a structure was erected using mud bricks according to the Church history. The church was built at the high point on the hill. The church was a low one-story structure with a wood slat roof. The windows appeared to be wide shuttered windows for ventilation in the warmer months. There was a crudely constructed bell tower in the front of the church. Judging from the photos, the size of the church was approximately 20 feet by 40 feet. (NOTE: The bell dated 1955 has been preserved in the church and is exhibited at the entrance to the worship area.)


(L) Jwadong Methodist Church Sunday School with "new" church (1955) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo) (NOTE: Notice the bell tower set out front. The original bell preserved in the Church is dated as 1955.) (R) Jwadong Methodist Church Congregation (1955) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo) (NOTE: This most likely is the dedication of the first church in early 1955. Notice there is a black officer in the front row center. This person would most likely have been someone from the K-55 Chaplain's office representing the base. Alongside him would be Rev Kim Yung-ja, the first pastor of the church.)


Jwadong Methodist Church Congregation (1956) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo)

The congregation was comprised of mostly the South Korean farmers in the area as the influx of North Korean refugees were clustered mainly in the Milwal-dong area. At the time, there was only the MSR-1 (Taenhyun Road) that ran from Osan-ni to the north past the intersection with the Shinjang Road (Mokchon Crossing) and then up over the hill past Jwadong Village and then Jijang-dong village on its way to Seojeong-ni. There was no Songbuk Morning Market at the time. Everything past the intersection of Shinjang Road was all rice fields until Are-Konji-ni (now the area near the Dongbu Apartments) and the rice fields extended to the base of Acacia Hill (now Songtan Park in Jisan-dong). The Jisan Stream fed the fields.

Rev. Yi Song-hyun was the 2nd Pastor of the church from 1957 to 1958. During this time, the financial circumstances of the church had improved and the church was able to build a more traditional church. In 1958 the new church was built on what was described as the "praying site". In the church history, the new building is described as a "sanctuary". It was located in what is now the parking lot of the Education Center with the doorway facing north. This was next to the dirt path that cut diagonally down the hill in what would become the Terminal Ridge Road. The chuch structure was complete in 1959.

The Jwadong Methodist Church (Jwadong Kyohwi) had a high peaked roof with a steepled entranceway. The construction appeared to be mud brick construction that was the standard of the time as concrete was still scarce. The exterior was then stuccoed and painted. The glass windows were wide so that it could provide air circulation. In a photo of the church, there is a flue in the center of the roof, so it can be inferred that the heating of the church in winter was through radiant heat using charcoal briquettes in a stove in the center of the church. The doors were barred and windows grated to prevent burglaries. Surrounding the church was a stuccoed brick wall.


(L) People entering new cinderblock church with steeple (1959) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo) (R) Jwadong Methodist Church with "Jwadong Kyohwi" sign (circa 1960) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo) (NOTE: In picture on left, the bricks are bare, but in the picture on right, the bricks have had stucco applied over them and painted. In the right photo, a sheet of Masden matting -- or Marsten sheeting from K-55 -- is used as a entrance block.)

By 1959, Songtan was increasing in size as the rice fields around Songbuk Morning Market was filled in. There started to appear a "downtown" area along the MSR-1 with the intercity bus depot (where the Kookmin bank is now) and the Jaeil Theater (behind where the Woori Bank is now). The wide road run up to the top of the hill where it reverted to a narrower two-lane dirt road to Seojong-ni as it continued past Jwadong Village and Jijangdong Village. It would stand to reason that as the area prospered so did the Jwadong Methodist Church as the only church in the immediate area. It would not be until the 1960s that other churches (Songtan Central Presbyterian and Songtan Catholic Church) were also built along the railroad tracks on Hoback Hill in the Goochang-teo area.


MSR-1 leading towards Osan-ni (NOTE: Jinwi-myeon hills in distance as road curves and goes down incline towards Farmers' Market. Electric poles to rear of buildings indicate that other buildings were behind the stores on left. Use of stones to construct stores on right indicates availability of concrete.) (Circa 1960) (51st FW Archives)

By 1965, the first sewers were going in in Songtan. The houses now covered Milwal-dong and started to spread out down through what is now Shinjang-2 dong. Along the MSR-1 the police box was installed near the Mokchon Railway Crossing and the police started to use motorcycles and white-painted jeeps along the MSR-1. Though the Achim Morning Market area had expanded by reclaiming the rice fields, there still was no Songbuk Market Road (National Route 1) and the Jisan-dong area still remained mostly ricefields.

In 1965, a new concrete church was built at 767-4 bunji (address). This new church was located where the side street now divides the present church and Education Center. The doorway of the building faced east. The exterior was covered with stucco and the roofed tiled. Judging from the photos, the church was about 40 feet by 20 feet. The old church that had been built in 1958 was retained as an educational building for teaching the children. It was located in the area west of the church in what is now the parking lot of the Education Center.

Rev. Chang Jun-hong became the 3rd Pastor of the church in 1965.


(L) New church (1965) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo) (R) Jwadong Methodist Church Congregation (1966) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo)


(L) Jwadong Methodist Church with Pastor Rev Chang Jun-hong (1969) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo)

In 1969, Elder Kim Ik-hwan, the 4th Pastor, departed for the U.S. Upon Rev. Kim Ik-hwan's departure, Hong Chun-ju became the Elder. (NOTE: On 21 Sep 2006, Elder Lee June-Chole stated that Rev. Kim was now a pastor in Los Angeles and had returned in 2004 for a visit.)

Up to the 1970s, the Jwadong Village area -- to the north of what is now Terminal Ridge Road -- remained isolated and a black bar row sprang up a few alleyways down. However, there was racial unrest with black airmen/soldiers that was spreading in the 1970s -- finally exploding in 1973 in Osan after blacks dragged a taxi driver from his cab and beat him. Koreans in turn attacked the blacks and racial violence quickly spread to the Shinjang Road area. As a result, the Jwadong area was placed off-limits and the black bars closed or moved into the Shinjang Mall area. After 1973, the bars were limited to the Shinjang area. Airmen no longer lived off-base in Jwadong and the Jwadong area reverted to a Korean residential area.

In 1972, Park Soo-hum became Elder for the church after Elder Hong Song-gyu resigned. In 1974, Pastor Park Kyung-wan became vice-manager of the church, while Lee Joong-doo and Kim Kyung-lak became Elders. In 1975, Pastor Park Kyung-wan was reassigned.

In 1976, a residence for the Pastor was built. Elder Jung Soon-jo, Kim Jang-kwan, Choi Jong-pil and Go Sang-yoon became Elders. In 1977, Elder Park Yoon-sook passed away and Elder Go Sang-yoon resigned.

Construction on the overpass officially started on 29 Sep 1976 and was completed on 10 May 1977. After 1978 things radically changed in the Jwadong area after the overpass from the K-55 area was erected. The overpass was completed in 1977 and the Terminal Ridge Road running by the church was widened in 1978. It ran to the base of hill where it connected to the new National Route 1 (Songbuk Market Road) that was being constructed starting from Jisan Stream intersecting point and continued down until Seojeong-ni where it rejoined the old MSR-1 route.


(L) Overpass Intersection of Terminal Ridge Road and MSR-1 looking north toward Morning Market (1978) (Harry Tezlaf) (NOTE: Notice policeman on corner handling traffic light.) (R) Police Box on Intersection of Terminal Ridge Road and MSR-1 looking east. Jwadong Methodist Church just over hilltop. (1978) (Harry Tezlaf)

In 1978, the new overpass was completed and the Terminal Ridge Road was extended to the base of the hill. At this time, the road construction was being laid out throughout the entire Songtan area with the cutting of roads on a grid pattern. The east-west roads in the Jwadong area followed the original alleyways as much as possible but cut perpendicular to the MSR-1 down to the base of the hill. The two north-south roads were to run diagonal along the hill. These north-south roads extended from Jungang-dong Village area through the Jwadong Village area across Terminal Ridge Road and then down the hill to the base where the intercity bus depot was located near the Achim Morning Market (Songbuk Farmers' Market). Later the new National Route 1 (Songbuk Market Road) would be constructed from the intersection of the MSR-1 near the Jisan stream through Jisan-dong to Seojeong-ni where it would reconnect to the original MSR-1 to Pyeongtaek.

Unfortunately, the grid pattern for new north-south road through Jwadong ran directly through the Jwadong Methodist Church that was constructed in 1965. It would have to be demolished. At the same time, the older Sanctuary built in 1958 -- and used as the educational center -- was also demolished. Elder Lee June-chole remembers the church in the late 1970s and the education center being located to the east of the church. (Source: Verbal conversation between Kalani O'Sullivan and Lee June-chole on 19 Sep 2006.)


Side Street leading down the Hill to behind the Kookmin Bank (Sep 2006) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

In Feb 1980, they built a new church on the spot where the present church is located at 768 Jisan-dong, Songtan City. A dedication service was held to bless the site of the new church. The land was filled in and elevated using a 20-foot retaining wall to create a larger area for the church. Basically the design would have the office area at the street level along the road that curved down to the Songbuk Farmers' Market area, while the church would be on the first floor at the newly elevated level reached by a broad set of steps from the street. The second floor would contain the offices for the pastors. In Nov 1980, the new church was completed. In Apr 1981, a dedication ceremony was held as well as a church revival. Elders Kim Jung-sook and Lee June-chole became Elders, while Elder Kim Gyung-lak retired.


Elder Lee June-chole (Sep 2006) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

In Jan 1982, Pastor Yoon Ki-hwan was reassigned and Rev Park Ki-taek became the 8th pastor to take charge of the church. In Jul 1983, preacher You Dong-soo took over as the education preacher and a rectory was constructed on the present location of the Education Center.


Jwadong Methodist Church (1984) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo)

In Jan 1985, Preacher Bang Woon took over as the Education Preacher, and in Feb 1985, You Dong-soo resigned as the education preacher. At this time a new Songbuk-dong church was created with assistance from the church. In Jun 1985, Elder Lee Jong-doo retired. On 25 Sep 1985, a dedication ceremony was held for a new Pastor's building at C768 bunji (address) that would become the Education Center.

In Jun 1986, Preacher Kim Hae-wook became a visiting preacher. In Jan 1987, Preacher Bang Woon became the education preacher, while visiting Preacher Kim Hae-wook resigned. Elder Park Soo-hum departed the church for Suwon.

In Feb 1990, Pastor Park Ki-taek retired and Pastor No Chul-rae took over as the 9th Pastor of the Church. In Apr 1990, Rev No Chul-rae received his doctorate and an installation ceremony was held. In Oct 1990, Park Jin-suk resigned as education preacher. In Nov 1990, Elder Kang Do-won arrived from the Dang-jin area Yoo-guk Church.

On 1 Jan 1991, Preacher Jo Sang-ho became the education preacher. In Feb 1991, Elder Lee Jang-doo passed away and a funeral was held in the church. In Feb 1992, Elder Kim Jang-sook retired.

On 1 Jun 1992, Joo Sang-ho resigned as the education preacher and was replaced on 1 Jul 1992 by Lee Jung-Il. On 1 Sep 1992 Park Young-ae was promoted to visiting preacher. Also in Sep 1992, Kim Goo-hang became an Elder.

In Feb 1993, Deacon Kwun Tae-bok became an Elder. On 1 Mar 1993, Preacher Lee Jung-il resigned. In Apr 1993, Elder Lim Sun-hee joined the church from the Songtan Kamri Church. In Sep 1993, Preacher Lee Do-jae became the education preacher.

On 15 Nov 1993, the church celebrated its 40th anniversary.

In Jul 1993, the church bought 130 pyeong of land to build the Education Building at 768-71 bungi, Jisan-dong. In Dec 1993, the church bought land at 768-95 bungi, Jisan-dong for the church.

In Jan 1994, Preacher Jung Goo-yeul resigned to go the Chonbuk Jong Kwang Church. In Apr 1994, longtime Elder Oh You-gun arrived from Buchon Ki Doong Church. In May 1994, Preacher Ryu Kyung-yul became the education preacher, and in Jun 1994, Lee Do-jae resigned as education preacher. In Jun 1994 Elder Lee Wook-joo came from the Dang-jin Song-mae Church.

On 1 Mar 1994, Pastor Jung Yoon-wha became the 10th Manager of the Church. Pastor No Chul-rae was reassigned to the Seoul Yang-moon church.

In Jan 1995, Preacher Park Jung-ae was accepted as visiting preacher, but on 1 Oct 1995 he resigned. Deacons Han Kil-he, Choi Sung-kwun became Elders. On 1 Jan 1996, Pastor Jin Ki-sup promoted to Vice-Manager of the church. At the same time, Kim Hae-wook became a visiting preacher and Kim Jung-hoon became the education preacher. On Feb 1996, Lee Hyun-sook became the visiting preacher.

In Mar 1996, the church underwent a major remodeling and facelift. The church frontage was upgraded and there was a landscaping of the grounds. The multi-story structure combined a kitchen and office area on the street level, the church was on the second level (top of the hill) and the pastor's offices was on the third level.

In 1996, the construction of the Jwadong Methodist Education Center was started across the street along with the parking area for the church. On 23 Aug 1996, Choon Nam, Tae Ah-goon, Gun Hyung-myun and Tong Sin-ri dedicated the spot for the new 1,810 sq meter moral education center. On 20 Jan 1998, the Education Center was officially opened.


(L) Remodeled church (1996) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo) (R) New Church (1996) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo)

On 13 Jan 1997, the church supported project for a Philippine Missionary Church with 5 people and Pastor Jang Yoon-hwa. The building was completed on 25 May 1997. On 4 Sep 1997, Pastor Lingout and a pastor's group from the Dapdap Jwadong Church Education Center visited the Philippines for missionary education. On 11 Jan 1999, the church supported the making of the Dasmarias Church in the Philippines and on 25 Sep 2000 the Philippines Dapdap Jwadong Church and private residences completed. The Methodist church insists that personal salvation always involves Christian mission and service to the world. Scriptural holiness entails more than personal piety; love of God is always linked with love of neighbor, a passion for justice and renewal in the life of the world.

On 30 May 1997, Lee Hyun-sook resigned as visiting preacher. He was replaced on 2 Jul 1997 by Park Jung-ae as visiting preacher, but he too resigned on 1 Nov 1997. On 1 Jan 1998, Lim Joo-suk became the visiting preacher. On 18 Oct 1998 services were held to mark Kwun Tae-bok, Han Kil-he, and Choi Sung-kwan becoming Elders; as well as marking Elder Lim Sun-he's retirement. On 13 Dec 1998, Kim Choong-bae and Jin Moon-ja became deacons.

On 31 Jan 1999, Pastor Choi Han-young became the pastor to the Taekwang High School. On 1 Jun 1999, Lim Joo-sik resigned as visiting preacher. On 1 Sep 1999, Kim Hae-wook resigned as visiting preacher. On 15 Aug 1999, Lee Sun-hee and Jang Hee-ok took over as visiting preachers.

On 1 Dec 2000, Joo Byung-jin became education preacher. On 30 Mar 2001, Pastor Jung Yoon-wha was promoted to Pyeongtaek Methodist District Superintendent. Education preacher Kim Jung-hoon became the Pastor. On 18 Apr 2001, his inauguration ceremony was held at the Pyeongtaek Presbyterian Church.

On 11 May 2001, the Education Center was built on 768-6, 786-8, 768-48 and 768-68 bunji with an area also used as a parking lot. Elder Choi Sung-gwan was made the project manager. The construction took 8 months. On 27 Jan 2002 Pastor Jung Yoon-hwa and 350 people attended the dedication of the new Education Center.

On 1 Jan 2002, teachers Sao Bo-hyun and Lee Jong-min became education preachers. On 17 Feb 2002, Kim Jung-hoon resigned as the education preacher.

The church continues to serve its community's religious needs after over 50 years. The church activities include providing free English conversational classes for youngsters, bible study and other activities for its youth. The present senior pastor is Rev Um Sang-hyun who oversees the congregation of about 900 (including children). Rev. Un Sang-hyun took over as pastor in 2004. He is assisted by Assistant pastor Lee Sang-hyun who arrived in 2006.


Rev. Um Sang-hyun


Jwadong Methodist Education Center (2004) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo)


(L) Church Revival (10 Apr 2006) (1996) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo) (R) Congregation (15 Apr 2006) (1996) (Jwadong Methodist Church Photo)

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Indigenous Workers Flock to Area As soon as the base construction started there was a need for indigenous workers to do the coolie labor -- hauling of rocks and dirt. The Army 839th Engineering Aviation Battalion hired some Koreans to work in their mess halls. In addition to the prostitutes off-base, the area started to fill with people seeking work on base. On the hills of the anti-aircraft artillery sites, little kids were filling sandbags for 25 cents a day. The refuse was contracted out -- and the response was that the garbage collectors were eating the American garbage as they drove away.

As word spread, many North Korean refugees from Hwanghae-do in the southwest part of North Korea moved to Songtan. These people had fled on foot and ended up in Taejon until the threat of the Chinese invasion had subsided. When the base was started in June 1952, the destitute North Koreans sought work at Osan. They arrived in large numbers and huddled together in the Milwal-dong area for protection and morale. As more arrived, they spread along the south-side of the perimeter into Jeokbong-ni, Sageori, Pokchang-ni and Shinchang-dong. Without land or resources, they took on the menial of tasks of the community to survive. The large numbers of refugees started to tax the school system in Seojong-ni as there was compulsory elementary education for children.

Everyday people seeking work on the base would line up at the main gate. A truck would drive up and count off how many laborers were needed for the day's work. At the end of the day, the workers were paid and delivered at the main gate. Later a contract office would be setup for the 839th Engineering Aviation Battalion and 914th Engineering Aviation Group which would handle the jobs as contract work. Photos of the construction of the base shows Koreans working as coolie laborers digging into the hillside and hauling the rock and dirt away on A-frames (chige). In the construction of the runway, Korean workers were engaged in the simple tasks to assist the EAB in pouring the concrete.

Koreans were hired as mess workers and other jobs requiring no technical skill. Korean companies would be used for the completion of small jobs, while the EAB handled the major tasks. At the time, the EAB was more concerned with constructing the essential base infrastructure rather than "morale" facilities. These smaller facilities would be done under contract.

As the base started to take shape, other areas were opened to indigenous workers. They worked in the messes, cleaned barracks, and did the laundry. These workers, in essence, liberated the officers and enlisted force from the everyday drudgeries of military life. Road gangs were comprised mostly of women as the men had all been conscripted or killed in the war. The base roads were cut out by graders driven by GIs, but right behind them were road crews with A-frames (chige) on their backs hauling the dirt away and widening the road with pick and shovel.

The fortunate ones who spoke a little English found jobs as translators/clerk typists in the units; or bartenders/waitresses in the clubs. There were few openings on the flightline area except as general cleanup people and as manual laborers used in moving munitions or working base supply in the storage facilities. (NOTE: It should be noted that the Christian missionaries in the Pyeongyang area had been teaching the poor and disenfranchised Koreans English since the late 1800s. Many of these Koreans migrated to America as "scab" laborers to offset the Japanese workers who started to leave the plantations and farms. As a general rule, the majority of the lower class people who could speak English were both Christians and North Korean.)

At times there were saboteurs amongst the Korean workers which increased the Americans mistrust. Dick Clifton, a South African pilot, remembered one occasion when a Korean worker removed the safety clip on the arming wire of one of his bombs -- a move which armed the bomb and nearly blew up him and his plane. The air police caught the saboteur soon after this episode and "dealt whith him appropriately." Presumably they shot him because summary executions was the standard procedure by the ROK Army who handled security. (Flying Cheetahs, Moore and Bashawe, pp213-214) However, in many cases, these saboteurs were in actuality people simply seeking to engage in thievery -- but the consequences were the same when caught -- summary execution. Of course, the rumors of the frequency of these occurrences heightened the mistrust.

Spies were also a problem throughout Korea -- especially in the early years of the war. Many Koreans could speak some English because of being taught in missionary schools -- mostly in Pyongyang. Unfortunately, these students were also from the disenfranchised peasant class who were Communist in leaning. Because of their English skills, these people easily found employment in the squadron bars and officer clubs where they could listen in on conversations. They were occasionally found and summarily executed -- on the spot. Though some Koreans were used in administrative roles, they were kept away from sensitive material. By 1953, the threat of spies had decreased -- though it would remain an open problem for American bases well into the 1970s.

There was a generalized prejudice against the Korean workers by Americans. Many of the Americans didn't like the Koreans and called them "Gooks." The Americans felt they would steal anything that wasn't nailed down. At this time, there was desparate poverty off-base and starvation amongst the populace. Instead of seeing the people's thievery as simply a means of survival, many Americans perceived it as a "colonial mentality" on the part of the Koreans whereby stealing from the Americans was morally acceptable -- while stealing from Koreans wasn't.

Cultural sensitivity was lacking for the most part in the Americans. But to come to the American defense, the landscape around Osan was barren of any trees. The air stank from the use of human excrement for fertilizer. The people were in rags and poverty was everywhere. The response was that the kimchee, the national dish, stank and there wasn't a damn thing in Korea worth saving. Though the country had thousands of years of history, none of it was evident in 1953 -- except ruins. Unlike Japan, it was hard to feel an affinity for this country or its people.

Despite this fact, many Americans took a shine to the Koreans who worked on base. In some cases, the Americans would "adopt" an orphan and he would become a fixture on the base -- residing in the barracks as well as acting as a houseboy. Unfortunately, their attitude towards the Koreans were for the most part paternalistic. Some units allowed their "mascots" (orphans) to sleep in the barracks. But though the Americans thought of their houseboys as lowly workers, the truth was that they were paid about $30 a month ($1-2 for each barracks resident) which was $6 more than a Korean colonel made. Having a job on base was a blessing. Soon the Korean workers formed networks whereby other family members would be brought in to work on base.

Regardless, the Korean people remembered the Korean War veterans and passed legislation whereby a foreign Korean War veteran could buy Korean land without being a Korean citizen. Though few took up the offer, some did and became Korean citizens after the war. The Korean War veterans who returned for the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War were treated as honored guests. The Koreans remember the sacrifices of the Korean War veterans in assisting Korea during its time of national need.


C-Ration Village Outside the Gate (1954) (Robert Furrer)

In the photo above, the area that became known as Chicol Village (also known as Jae Yok-dong) -- and finally Shinjang-dong. To the local residents, it was known as Chongmun-eup (Front Gate town) to differentiate it from the agricultural village.

The photo was taken just at the main gate -- most likely from the helipad to the right of the gate. To the right there is a sign post where the Korean to the right is. At the sign post was a small alley that ran down towards the Jungang Market area -- which still hadn't been established -- and then down along the rice paddies in what is now Shinjang 2-dong.

The Shinjang Mall Road -- though it was not a Mall then either -- veered left at the main gate and then jogged right. It straightened out till it went up the hill and over the rail spur. It then went down over the Kyongbu Railway. If you look to the left, you will see the pattern of the houses with a space between indicating the two-lane dirt road. The houses-shops were built directly along the edge of the Shinjang Mall road and there was very little expansion as yet.

The clap-trap nature of the houses are evident. The roofing material most likely is tar paper (obtained from the base) and tacked down with strips. The tar paper was used for inner wall water barrier insulation on the Jamesway buildings and Quonset huts used on base. These houses shanty houses made from mudwattle and scrap wood -- even cardboard.

In between the houses, you will note there is an open strip along the hillside. This is the location of the Kyongbu Railroad line and railroad spur area to the base. The hill in the background is the hill between the base and MSR-1. There is a faint line on the hill indicating the road that joins MSR-1 at the base of the hill. The Songbuk-dong business area and farmers market had not been built as yet.

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Education The influx of refugees into the Chicol-ni and Milwal-dong areas created problems of overcrowding in the local area schools. In Seojong-ni, there was the Seojong-ni Elementary which had been officially established in 1945 -- but traced its roots back to 1922 Japanese school. The Seojong Elementary School had reopened after the initial invasion in Jun 1951, but there were not enough teachers and too little classroom space in their 3-room school house. In April 1952, a Parent-Teacher Association was formed to help defray the costs. Under this program, the PTA supported about 75 percent of the costs and the government provided 25 percent. Unfortunately, under this plan only those who supported the school would attend. Though primary school was made compulsory in 1949, there were still disenfranchised children in the refugee community.

NOTE: In 1952, Robert Evilsizor, 839th EAB, took 8mm home movies of school children marching in line to school and a boy in uniform playing "changi" (kick-toy game). The neatly dressed children we believe were headed to Seojong-ni Elementary about 2 km down the road. There is a part with a little boy in uniform that we believe was from the St. Theresa's middle school -- taught at that time by Father Dominicu in the St. Theresa Rectory. We make this assumption because of the uniform. At that time only middle school (and above) students wore uniforms. St. Theresa's was the only Middle School in the area in 1952. In 1953, it would move into its new 8-room school house built on the church grounds capable of supporting 280 students. (St. Theresa's later became the Seojong Catholic Church.)

School unknown, but near Hill 170 (1953) (Bob Spiwak) (NOTE: See Compulsory Elementary School Education in the Songtan area for details.)

In 1952, Robert Evilsizor with the 839th EAB, took some 8mm movies of a long procession of kids walking to school. As there was only the Seojong Elementary School in the area at the time, these kids must have been on the way to school. They were guided by the teacher and some women who might have been parents or teachers. Though the government had passed a law making education compulsory it did not fund the schools adequately. Thus most of the schools were supported by "donations" from the Parent-Teacher Associations. In fact, those children whose families could not afford to "donate," did not attend school. Because of the severe poverty, many times families could not even afford the cost of paper and pencils. In the film, most of the children did not have uniforms, but some of the older one did. Some of the girls wore white blouses with black trim on the collar and black skirts. Some of boys wore the traditional black coat and pants. What was evident was the happiness to attend school that was evident in the faces of the children as they marched along.

Though elementary education was "compulsory," the truth was the government had neither the resources nor the teachers to implement such a program. At that time, if you were a high school graduate, you were qualified to be a elementary school teacher. "Government-endorsed" schools were set up in a system where the government would provide the buildings (many times tents donated by the American military) or unheated-buildings and approximately 25 percent of the funding. The parents would "donate" the difference. In this void many missionary and church schools moved in to fill the void to help the poor people be educated. The missionary schools have a long history in Korea dating back to the late 1800s starting in Pyeongyang and spreading to the other major cities and treaty ports. At that time, the yangban upper classes were educated, but the poor were left uneducated. The same appears to be true in the Songtan area in the 1950s. The "haves" (no matter how meager) went to the government schools, while the poor went to the "church" schools. The emphasis was simply on learning to read and write Korean, but the education starved Koreans flocked to these schools which operated sometimes in shifts to handle both children and adults.

The Seojong Elementary School that was first established in 1945 as a "branch" training school and became the Seojong-ni Elementary School in 1949. This is the school that was over-loaded with students in 1952 when North Korean refugees flooded into the area seeking work at the Osan-ni AB. As the North Korean population exploded in the area, the Kumgak-ri Elementary School was established to the south of the base as a "branch" school of Seotan Elementary School in 1953.

However, there were also "church" schools in the area. The most visible was the Salvation Army was active in the Chicol Village area. Its main work was with the orphans through the Gusegun (Salvation Army) church set up in the area. (NOTE: The during this time period there were 20 orphanages in Suwon and three in Pyeongtaek to handle the overflow crowds of children. The Pyeongtaek orphanages handled the orphans that showed up at K-55. Currently there is the Ae Hyang Orphanage in Seojong-dong run by Mr. Lee Min Ho.)

The Catholic church was started in Seojong-ni in 1930 and it appears that classes were taught in the rectory of the church to a small group of children by the priests. In 1952 Father Dominicu held classes in the rectory for children who sat on the floor. Through donations of the 18th FBW in 1953 from the Catholic personnel on Osan-ni AB, the St. Theresa's Middle School was established. This was the forerunner to the Hyomyung Middle School and Hyomyung High School which have continued in operation to the present day. The Hyomyung Middle School celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2003 and the High School in 2006. (See 18th FBW builds country school for details.)

The Kwangmyeong Gongmin Hakkyo (church school) was established in 1953. The Taegwang Middle School authorities state it was in the same area as the Taegwang Middle School today -- near the high ground next to the rice fields. The hakkyo was located below the area where Songshin Elementary was built in 1963. It was in the low-lying area adjacent to the rice fields.

(NOTE: The school taught the first three grades of elementary school. According to Mr. Pak Chong-su, owner of the Pak Toy and Doll Shop, the school was started by his father. Pak Song-chul, was an advisor to the 18th ABG Commander and got the base to provide the tents for the much needed school as the population swelled with North Korean refugees. The day-to-day operations was handled by Mr. Pak Byong-kwon, a good friend of the senior Mr. Pak, and who had a house adjacent to the school. (Source: Verbal conversation Kalani O'Sullivan and Mr. Pak Chong-su on 19 Nov 2005.

On 11 Nov 1955, the Songtan Godung Gomin Hakkyo (church middle school) started six classes. This became the Seongwang hagwon on 6 Jan 1962 and then merged with the Seongwang Middle School on 17 Mar 1962. On 12 Mar 1968, the Taegwang hagwon changed to the Taegwang Middle School and supplanted the Seongwang Middle School with permanent structures next to the Songshin Elementary School.)

Humanitarian Services:

a. The Catholic Chaplain's Fund sponsored a primary and middle school at So-Jong-Ri, Korea. The present building and equipment were provided entirely through the contributions of the Catholic personnel on the base. Further improvements are under way with a view to extending the size of the school by three rooms through AFAK, and an additional two rooms provided through the Fund, making it eight rooms in all. The expense of erecting the building will be assumed by the Fund. Over $6,000.00 has already been donated towards this project since January 1st. Another $6,000.00 to $9,000.00 expenditure is contemplated to complete the project.

b. Towards various charitable projects in Korea the Catholic Fund, besides the building of St. Theresa's School, has contributed over $2,000.00.

c. An expenditure, in addition, from the Catholic Fund of $800.00 has been approved for the purpose of providing a playground for the children of St. Theresa's School.

d. The tuition for three (3) years each, amounting to $360.00 for the education of two (2) Korean boys has been provided by the Catholic Chaplain's Fund. (Source: History of the 18th Fighter Bomber Wing 1 Jan 1954 to 30 Jun 1954, Office of the WIng Chaplain)

Chaplain (Maj) Rinkowski and St. Theresa's Middle School (1952) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

The Rev. Fr. George M. Rinkowski died on 16 June 2006 at the age of 93 in Toledo, Ohio. He served the Diocese of Toledo for over 65 years. Amongst his many accomplishments, he never forgot his contribution in establishing that small school at St. Theresa's (Seojong-ni Catholic Church) that turned into the Hyomyung Middle & High School:

George M. Rinkowski Lucas County U.S. Army Air Corps- WWII U.S. Air Force- Korea Volunteered for service in the Army in World War II, then transferred into other branches of service. Landed in Yokohama, Japan, 11:00 a.m., 2 September 1945; 35 months in Japan. Life member of VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, Korean War Veterans, Catholic War Veterans. Life Honorary member of Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. Member Knights of Columbus. Member Lagrange Business and Professional Association. Past national chaplain of Veterans of Foreign Wars (two years). Distributed 4800 tons of clothing from the United States to Korean orphans. Initiated construction of a school in Korea. (Source: Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 1999.)

Reverend Father George M. Rinkowski, who served the Diocese of Toledo for 65 years, died Friday, June 16, 2006, in Flower Hospital. Reverend Rinkowski was born to John and Anna (Gunka) Rinkowski in North Toledo on February 8, 1913. He attended St. Michael Parish School and Central Catholic High School, graduating in 1933. After Studying at St. John University, Desales College, St. Gregory Seminary and St. Mary Seminary, he was ordained to the Priesthood in June 1941. After ordination, Father served in parishes in Erie, Crawford, Lucas, Wyandot and Paulding Counties. He volunteered for service in the Army in 1945 as a First Lieutenant, later becoming a Captain before transferring to the United States Air Force. Father Rinkowski's duty assignments took him to Wyoming, the Far East, the Philippines, Japan, Elgin Air Proving Grounds, Randolph Air Force Base, Warren Air Force Base, Korea and Chaunte Air Force Base. He returned to civilian life in 1956 and assisted with the Newman Clubs, lecturing on philosophy and religion for ten years. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus since 1941, attaining the Fourth Degree in 1950 Father Rinkowski was a member of the VFW Post 587 in Paulding Ohio, VFW Post 5530 in Toledo, Catholic War Veterans Jude Thaddeus Post 1675, American Legion, AMVETS, Polish Veterans General Anders Post 74, Military order of the Cooties, and 40/8 Voiture 414 Ohio. The Toledo Chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association awarded Father Rinkowski with an honorary life membership for his service and support. He was a member and chaplain of the Citizens' Monitor Board, and also a member of the LaGrange Business and Professional Association. Father Rinkowski's last assignment was as the Pastor of St. Hedwig's Parish. In this position, he advised and promoted the Senior Center and worked on preserving the Public Library in the LaGrange Street neighborhood . Fr. George was also the driving force that led the neighborhood in purchasing the Ohio Theater in 1976, and was the designer of it's unique stage. He is survived by his sisters, Lillian Knorr and Anna Rinkowski and by many nieces and nephews. ... (Source: Published in the Toledo Blade from 6/18/2006 - 6/20/2006)

The Hyomyung Middle School 50th Anniversary Edition (2003) shed light on this school. The postcard in the photo reads: "This school was built by Catholic Airmen, Army Personnel, SCARWAF Personnel of K-55 through their generous contributions at Masses during the past six months. Bishop Paul M. Rho, Bishop of Seoul, (blocked out) the $6,000 (blocked out) 6 January 1954." According to Mr. Kim Jong-youp, Vice-Principal of Hyomyung Middle School, the structure was built in what is now the parking lot of the Seojong Catholic Church.

It appears that $6,000 -- a significant amount of money at that time -- was donated towards the construction of the school done under contract, The key man in getting this going was Chaplain (Major) Rinkowski of the Wing Chaplain of the 18th FBW and Father Dominicu (Korean priest) of the St. Theresa's Church in Seojong-ni. However, this project was not well-publicized and may have been a strictly Catholic airmen initiative as many veterans of that period did not know of this school.


St. Theresa's Middle School (1957) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

The Seojong Church (St. Theresa's Catholic Church) was founded on its present location in 1937. Prior to the building of the new school structure, Father Dominicu (Ryu Su-cheol) (1918-1977) was teaching a small number of students in the rectory in 1952. Father Dominicu served at the Seojong Catholic Church from 1952-1960.


Father Dominicu teaching in Rectory (1952) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

The building was erected in 1953 and called "St. Theresa Middle School" -- and is the predecessor of the present Hyomyung Middle School. (NOTE: It appears that the date of the official opening of the structure by Bishop Paul M. Rho is used as the founding date of the Hyomyung Middle School. The Hyomung Middle School was founded on 21 May 1953 -- and followed by the Hyomyung High School on 21 May 1956. The school's first classrooms at its present location about a quarter-mile down the road from the Seojong-ni Catholic Church was built in 1960, but it wasn't officially moved until 1964.)

(L) Seojong Catholic Church Parking Lot (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) (NOTE: Site of St. Theresa's Middle School in 1953.) (R) Seojong Catholic Church (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)


St. Theresa's Middle School. Fr. Dominicu in center. (1953) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


St. Theresa's Middle School in front of church rectory (1956) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


St. Theresa's Middle School in front of church rectory (1956) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 26 Feb 1957, the Hyomyuing High School created with three classes. On this date, the first principal Kim Kyang-ha took control acting both as a teacher and principal. On 10 Feb 1960, Hyomyung High School year graduated its first class of 24 boys and 9 girls.


(L) St. Theresa's Middle School in front of church rectory. Fr. Dominicu in center. (1958) (R) St. Theresa's Middle School Class (1959) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


St. Theresa's Middle School in front of church rectory (1959) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

From 15 Mar 1960 to 20 Dec 1960, construction took place to build 10 classrooms (903.57 sq meter). This is the location of the present school and operated as an annex of the main school remained at the Seojong-ni Catholic Church.


Hyomyung Middle and High School building ceremonies with Church and K-55 dignitaries. Father Dominicu as Principal presiding. (1960) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


Hyomyung Middle and High School building ceremonies with Church and K-55 dignitaries. Father Dominicu as Principal presiding. (1960) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


(L) 10 classroom building (NOTE: Now high school administration offices.) (R) Hyomyung Middle and High School building ceremonies with Church and K-55 dignitaries. Father Dominicu as Principal presiding. (NOTE: Notice the lack of buildings around the school.) (1960) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 18 Dec 1962, Hyomyung High School became "Hyomyung Shiop High School" (trade school) with three classes. On 15 Oct 1963, a sports room was constructed for judo.

On 1 Mar 1964, the classrooms were "officially" moved from Seojong-ni Catholic Church to present location. In 1952 they first built the classroom at Seojong-ni Catholic Church and they had playground. In 1960, they built the classrooms where they are now, but there was no playground. During breaktime, they went to the Seojongni Catholic Church to use playground until a playground could be constructed. In 1964, ceremonies was held to dedicate the new construction on the playground.

On 10 Oct 1965, a wood-working building (mok-kong jang) was constructed. From 15 Sep 1966 - 17 Nov 1967, they built 20 more classrooms (2023.5 sq meters). On 5 Oct 1967, three electrical classes were added.

On 20 Nov 1968, three machine shop classes were added. On 20 Dec 1968, a family building (kajong-kwan) was built with an area of 573.4 sq meters. The 1st floor was 284.9 square meters, while the 2nd floor was 288.5 square meters.


(L) Business Class (1960) (R) Drafting Class (1967) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


(L) Surveying Class (1967) (R) Wood working Class (1967) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


(L) Electrical Class (1970) (R) Surveying Class (1970) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


(L) Wood-working Class (1971) (R) Electrical Class (1971) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


(L) Machine Shop Class (1971) (R) Sewing Class (1971) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 1 Apr 1969, the second principal Kim Woo-yong took over. On 30 Jun 1969, classrooms were constructed at the first gate that encompassed 2024.4 sq meters. The 1st floor had 275.76 sq meters; 2nd floor 867.66 sq meters; and 3rd floor 480.96 sq meters. On 22 Nov 1969, the school name was changed to "Hyomyung Chonghap Kodung Hakkyo" (General High school) which synthesized the classes. Three regular classes were added.


(L) Hyomyung girl students (1967) (R) Hyomyung students in Seojong-ni (1970) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


Class Roll Call (1970) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 3 Jun 1972, a new school building (ji hae-kwan) of 1110.44 sq meters was constructed. The 1st floor was 555.22 sq meters; and the 2nd floor was 555.22 sq meters. On 5 Dec 1972, electrical classes increased. On 1 Nov 1974 Machine shop classes were increased to 6 classes.

On 29 Jul 1975, a "special study room" on 1st floor made 849.30 sq meter for Science course work. On 24 Nov 1975, the woodworking classes were terminated and electrical classes increased to 6 classes. There were 3 business classes and 6 machine shop classes.

On 7 Sep 1978, an outdoor amphitheater was constructed that seated 5000 people. The pine trees that covered the area was not disturbed and the land was leveled with the help of the K-55 heavy equipment. The base also assisted in the construction of the amphitheater. The stand of pine trees in the amphitheater are the amongst last that once covered the entire Songtan area -- and from which the city gets its name: song (pine) and tan (charcoal).


Construction of Amphitheater (1978) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 19 Oct 1979, the business classes were terminated. There were now 9 middle-school classes and 3 machine shop classes. On 3 Jun 1980, there were 3 machine shop classes, 6 electricity classes, and 12 middle school classes. On 1 Jun 1983, a "special study area" was constructed with a total space of 893.7 sq meters. The 2nd floor was the library.


Amphitheater Sports Awards Group (1985) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 1 Sep 1986, the third principal Yi Jung-taek took over. In 1990, there were only three types of classes. On 19 Sep 1990, there were 6 machine shop classes; 6 electricity classes; and 12 middle classes. On 1 Sep 1986 start built two special classrooms for weightlifting (208.5 sq meters) and completed on 23 Dec 1986.

From 1 Jun 1987 to 1 Oct 1987 the construction of new library (209.34 sq meter) took place.

From 19 Jul 1991 to 30 Jun 1992 the school built 6 more classrooms and 3 more toilets (1101.6 sq meters).

From 28 Oct 1992 to 30 Dec 1993 the school built 27 more classrooms (2786.4 sq meters).

On 1 Mar 1994, the fourth principal Fr. Kim Bong-hak (Bauro) took over. On 2 Jun 1994, a machine room area was made with total area of 3104.75 sq meters. The 1st floor had 1135.75 sq meter; 2nd floor 1124.50 sq meter; and 3rd floor 844.50 sq meter. On 1 Oct 1994, a student dormitory (ki-sik sa) was constructed with a total area of 475.24 squ meter. The 1st floor was 237.62 sq meter and the 2nd floor was 237.62 sq meter.

From 11 Sep 1995 to 20 Dec 1995 the school built 3 more classrooms and one more bathroom (259.2 sq meter).

On 5 Jul 1996, teacher housing (sataek) was constructed with total area of 120.96 sq meter. On 24 Mar 1996, display rooms were constructed with a total area of 1296 sq meter. The 1st floor had 486 sq meter; 2nd floor 486 sq meter; and 3rd floor 324 sq meter.


New Construction at Hyomyung High School with Bishop Kim presiding on dedication (Jul 1996) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 10 Jan 1997 the demolition of 30 classrooms no longer used.

From 1 Aug 1997 to 20 Dec 1997 built 7 classrooms (780.3 sq meters).

In 1999, a cafeteria was constructed with a total area of 1002.6 sq meter. The 1st floor had 923 sq meter and the 2nd floor had 179.6 sq meter.

On 19-20 Jun 2001, national Catholic student meeting was held at Hyomyung Middle & High School. On 28 Feb 2002, the KBS "Golden Bell" program -- a student knowledge-based contest -- was televised from the school. On 1 Jun 2002, a 192.9 sq meter sports building was constructed.

On 1 Jul 2002 the school built 6 more classrooms and 3 bathroom (841.52 sq meters).

On 30 Oct 2002 the statue of the virgin Mary was moved outside. In 1960 they built an alcove for the statue on the building above the entrance. In 1997, the building was demolished and the statue moved inside. In 2002, it was decided that the statue should be moved outside in front of new building to inspire the students passing by.


(L) Statue of Mary above entrance and relocated (1970-2002) (R) Statute relocated (2002) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 13 Feb 2003 construction started in front of the library to build 6 more classrooms and 2 more bathrooms (841.52 sq meter). On 20 Feb 2003, the school held its 44th Anniversary as a trade school. Up to 2003, the school had graduated 12,155 pupils. On 10 Apr 2003, the school electrical system was upgraded to 900kw. On 22 Apr 2003, the Kyonggi-do trade students held their competition at the school. On 21May 2003, Hyomyung Middle School celebrated its 50th anniversary.


New Building Construction (2002) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


New Building Construction (2002) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

From 28 Nov 2002 to 14 Nov 2003 the construction of the new gym hall (2300.5 squ meter) was undertaken. Using metal beams and concrete, the total area was 696 pyeong. First floor was 1583.5 sq meters (480 pyeong). 2nd floor 717 sq meter (216 pyeong). First floor used for baseball and office, bathroom, electric room, shower room, dressing room and 1000 moving seats. Second floor 1008 balcony seats, store rooms and multi-media room. The shared cost for the construction was Kyonggi-do Province gave 400 million won; Kyonggi Education Hall gave 500 million won; Pyeongtaek City gave 700,000 million' and School paid 700 million won. Total cost was 2.3 billion won ($2.3 million). On 6 Nov 2003, the Gym was rededicated as the Kwangamkwan Bldg -- the 50th Anniversary Gym.


New Gym Construction (2002) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

15 Sep 2003 they improve the drainage of the playgrounds. In the past, they had problems with flooded grounds that prevented activities. Added soccer fields and baseball.


Playground Drainage Project (2002) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 17 Feb 2005, the 50th class graduated from the Hyomyung Middle School -- a total of 16,219 students from its beginnings. On 28 Feb 2005, the Dominiku Building was erected in honor of Father Dominicu (1918-1977).

The Hyomyung High School will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2007 (instead of 2006) according to the Vice-Principal of Hyomyung Middle School, Mr. Kim Jong-youp and Ms. Choi Jeong-min, a school English teacher who acted as translator.


Hyomyung HS & MS (2003) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


Hyomyung HS & MS (2003) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

Hyomyung High School (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

Amphitheater Hyomyung Middle School (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

Hyomyung Middle School (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

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Honcho Park The Airman Magazine in Sept 2001 ran a touching story of Pak Chan-yang's flight to freedom and finally finding work at the Osan AB Messhall. (See Honcho Park).

When he was 15 years old, Pak Chan-yang's life changed for the better. But it didn't seem like it at the time, as he ran for his life.

It was early 1953 and the Korean War raged. The Paks were farmers in Unyulkun, a village in North Korea's lush Hwanghae province. The teen had never been to school. Instead he worked the family's small plot of land. That was all he knew. It was life under the yoke of communism.

The Paks hated communism. "It controlled us," he said. "We wanted to be free."

The fighting in the province grew fierce. Guerilla forces were active. And as North Korean and Chinese forces closed in, the Paks knew there would be retaliations. So they fled.




Pak Chan-Yang (2001) (Airmen Magazine)

They made a beeline west for the Yellow Sea. They joined a ragtag exodus of refugees going the same way. All hoped to make it to safety, somewhere. On their heels were the communists who'd been their masters since the end of World War II.

But the Paks were lucky. American ships waited at the coast to take the refugees to safety. The Paks boarded a huge landing craft. People crowded into every available space. None had any idea where they were going. But Pak said that didn't matter.

"All we knew was that we'd never be able to go back home," said Pak, now 63 and head chef at the dining facility at Osan Air Base, South Korea.

However, as he looked out over the sea, Pak did wonder what lay ahead. What would happen to his family. About the family left behind that he'd probably never see again.

"We were scared," he said. "But in our hearts, we knew leaving was the right thing to do."

Flight for life

The journey to the South was a desperate flight of survival. A trip made by hundreds of thousands of North Koreans. It was one of many sacrifices they'd make to better their lives.

Two days later, the ship docked at Kunsan City, and Pak's new life in South Korea began. Within a few months, the fighting stopped. An armistice followed. Then both sides sat back to maintain the shaky cease-fire.

Pak's family settled in Kunsan, and still live there. But the teen-ager knew he had to strike out on his own. What little money his father had would soon be gone. He'd been free six months when he heard the Americans were hiring people at Osan. He knew he had to go there.

"It was the only way I could help myself and my family," he said. "I had to go."

So with the few won [Korean money] that his father had given him in his pocket, he left. The money didn't last the trip, but he made it to Osan. What he saw amazed him.

The base was still under construction. And jets took off with a roar from its concrete runway. The landscape around the base was bare. There were no rice paddies or trees. No town or homes.

"I had never seen anything like it before," he said. "But there was so much going on."

Out of money and hungry, he joined the other people outside the base gate looking for work. He spoke no English and had no job skills. But he was determined. During the next three months, he lived day to day. If he got a meal a day, he was lucky. Many days he went hungry. He built a shack from cardboard boxes discarded from the base. But each time it rained he had to rebuild it.

"And it rained a lot," he said.

Pak doesn't like to dwell on that time. All he'll say is that it was a hard time.

Pak doesn't like to dwell on that time. All he'll say is that it was a hard time.

He got his break in January 1954 — a job helping build the base dining facility. He had an income. Could eat regularly and send his family money.

Pak Chan-Yang (2001) (Airmen Magazine)

Pak Chan-Yang (2001) (Airmen Magazine)

When the dining facility opened, he stayed to work in the kitchen. Soon he developed a taste for roast beef and hamburgers. He's been at Osan ever since, longer than any other worker. Forty-seven years later, "Honcho" Pak — as his co-workers call him — is head chef at Osan's award-winning Pacific House dining facility. He's done every job there from cleaning the kitchen and sweeping floors to peeling potatoes, managing the storeroom and cooking.

---

18th TFW and 2d Squadron SAAF Transition from F-51 Mustangs

29 December 1952: The F-86-11 Mobile Training Unit (MTU) bagan arriving at Osan. Everything was in place by 7 Jan 1952, the unit having brought over from Chanute AFB, in Illinois. (Source: F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea, Warren Thompson, 1999, p28)

7 January 1953: The task facing Colonel Frank S. Perego's 18th Fighter Bomber Wing was trmendous. It was expected to keep its old F-51 Mustangs in operation as long as possible while it moved to an unfinished airfield in the dead of winter and began to transition conventional fighter pilots to the "hottest" USAF jets. The conversion program was already lagging when the 18th Wing moved from Chinhae Airfield ot Osan-ni on 26 December 1952. No Sabres had yet been received, but the Mustangs were so worn out that the 18th Group moved such of these as it still possessed from Hoengsong to Osan-ni on 11 Jan 1953. After arriving at the new base, the 12th Squadron and the attached 2d South African Air Force Squadron stood down for transition, but the 67th Squadron continued to fly Mustangs until 23 January. On this day, the old F-51s -- once the pride of the Air Force but now sadly obsolete old planes -- were withdrawn from combat. (Source: USAF in Korea, Robert F. Futrell, pp637-638)

A mobile training detachment for the F-86 came from Tsuiki to Osan to begin the conversion training. It continued eight hours a day, seven days a week until the task was completed. Several experienced pilots from the veteran 4th and 51st Interceptor Wings were transferred into the 18th to ease the pilot transition. Sabre Jet Classics stated: "It would be no easy task for the South African air and ground crews to transition into the Sabre. None of the pilots had ever flown a jet, nor had any of the ground crews maintained an aircraft as complicated as the F86."

Harold Snow and F-86F with early 18th FBW Tail Marking (early 1953)
(NOTE: Red stripes indicate the 67th FBS; Yellow Stripes indicate 12th FBS)
(Harold Snow, F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea)


Osan AB Sabre Jet (early 1953) (Ron Freedman)

According to The U.S. Air Force in Korea (p637), "The new model Thunderjets increased the Fifth Air Force's combat capability, but the biggest news was the proposed equipment of the 8th and 18th Fighter Bomber Wings with F-86F Sabre air-ground attack planes. Except for bomb shackles, a modification of its gun-bomb-rocket sight, and special 200-gallon external fuel tanks, the F-86F Sabre-bomber would not be greatly different from the F-86F-interceptor. Many pilots were not completely convinced that the Sabre would be satisfactory as a fighter-bomber. "It's much too fast," some said. "It's bound to be unstable," thought others. Despite such pessimism, the Fifth Air Force planned to convert the 18th Fighter-Bomber Wing at the new Osan-ni Airfield, squadron by squadron, beginning in November 1952. Sometime in January 1953, after the 18th Wing had obtained its full complement of Sabres, the 8th Wing was to begin to convert its squadrons at Suwon Airfield. Conversion of air wings to a radically different type of aircraft is never an easy task, and a number of unforeseen developments made the Sabre fighter-bomber conversion program the most difficult. Slippages in deliveries of Sabres to the Far East delayed the 18th Wing's conversion and put both wings into transition at the same time. Concerned with the growth of Red air capabilities, General Barcus ordered the new Sabre wings to make their pilots proficient in fighter-interceptor tactics before beginning fighter-bomber training."

January 22: The 18th FBW withdrew its remaining F-51 Mustangs from combat and prepared to transition to Sabres, thus ending the use of USAF single engine, propeller-driven aircraft in offensive combat in the Korean War. Some of the F-51s went to the ROKAF, and the rest were ferried to Itazuke, Japan. The decision to reequip the unit with F-86F-30 Sabres was made in Oct 52, but problems with delivery had delayed the conversion. (Source: AFHRA) (NOTE: On 27 December 1952, No. 2 Squadron flew its last missions in the veteran F-51Ds. However, delivery problems held up the conversion to the Sabres until early 1953. On 30 December 1952, the 18th Wing moved from Chinhae to the new air base that had been built at Osan in anticipation of the arrival of the F86s.)

8 January 1953: 12th FBS stands down froom combat and flying their F-51Ds back to Kisarazu AB, Japan by way of Itazuke AB, Japan. With the 12th FBS 'hitting the manuals' by early January 1953, the Soth Africans became the nexxt unit to stand down. This left just the 67th FBS at K-46, flying as many missions as it could handle with all the wing's surviving F-51Ds. (Source: F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea, Warren Thompson, 1999, p29)

12 January 1953: Heavy snowfall typical of December and January with temperatures in the teens or lower. The 12th and No.2 Squadrons received their Sabres, while the 67th, continued flying Mustangs.

15 January 1953: On 15 January the 67th launched its last major strike out of Hoengsong, the F-51s then recovering at Osan AB. This was a significant event in the history of the 18th FBW, for less than a week later (23 January 1953, to be precise, the 67th FBS flew its last combat mission of the war with the F-51D. (Source: F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea, Warren Thompson, 1999, p29)

23 January 1953: The 67th Squadron continued to fly Mustangs until 23 January. On this day, the old F-51s -- once the pride of the Air Force but now sadly obsolete old planes -- were withdrawn from combat. (Source: USAF in Korea, Robert F. Futrell, p638). The unit was then officially removed from the available frontline force. According to official records kept by the wing, 20 Mustangs were flown back to Japan on 17 January, with the remaining 26 fighters flying out from Osan. 11 days later: The retirement of the legendary WWII vintage fighetr from the USAF's frontline force was carried out with very little fanfare from the media. Indeed, the significance of the even was only truly realized within the ranks of the 18th FBW itself. (Source: F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea, Warren Thompson, 1999, p29)

The 67th converted to F-86Fs. At first, the l8th's pilots learned fighter-interceptor tactics before relearning their previous fighter-bomber duties. According to an article by Warren Thompson, "Classroom instruction was strictly business, with as many as three different classes going on at the same time, eight hours a day, seven days a week. The fast pace enabled all of the 18th's pilots to be checked out in the new aircraft by Feb. 25, only 49 days after training began and only 32 days after the final Mustang mission."


F-86F with early 18th FBW Tail Marking (1953)
(NOTE: Red stripes indicate the 67th FBS; Yellow Stripes indicate 12th FBS)
(F.G. Smart, F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea)

January 28: The l8th Fighter Bomber Wing received its first three PAINTED F-86F Sabres. One was marked in SAAF colors and the other two in 18th FBW colored bands. The South African Air Force's (SAAF) No. 2 Squadron, the "Springboks" (antelopes) had a springbok silhouette painted on the sides of its Mustangs. The 12th, the "Fightin' Foxey Few" had yellow propeller spinners with shark's teeth on their noses like the Flying Tigers. The 67th, the "Fightin' Cocks," had red spinners with a rooster logo. Sabres continued to be delivered until the last Sabre arrived on 31 March.


Foxy Few Emblem on Squadron Ops Bldg (1953)
(Gene Buttyan, F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea)

The unofficial nickname 12th FBS "Foxy Few" logo appeared on the tails of the 12th FBS F-86s as well as on "Foxy Few" patches, mugs -- and even signs on the Operations Building. The wing proclaimed its presence by posting a sign at the base's main gate stating: "18th Fighter Bomber, Best Damn Fighter Group in the World". (Source: Korea War Project: 12th FBS and Korea War Project: 67th FBS.) The 12th FBS was the only squadron that did no use an official emblem during the fighter-bomber era of the Korean War. Instead, its personnel chose to keep the "Foxy Few" logo that had been created soon after the unit had arrived in Korea from Clark AFB, in the Philippines, in July 1950. The emblem had been designed by legendary Mustang pilots "Spud" Taylor and "Chappie" James. (Source: F-85 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea, Warren Thompson, 1999, p 26)


Foxy Few Emblem on Aircraft (late 1953)
(Ken Smith, F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea)

11 February 1953: - General Maxwell D. Taylor replaces General James A. Van Fleet at Eighth Army.

22 February 1953: First mission was flown with part of the 4th. Sabre Jet Classics stated: "It was a MiG Sweep along the Yalu flown by the commanders of the three squadrons in the 18th Group. Major Jim Hagerstrom, CO of the 67th Squadron led the flight, with Commandant Gerneke as no. 2, Colonel Maurice Martin, new CO of the 18th, was no. 3, and Major Harry Evans, CO of the 12th Sq., flew no.4. Although several flights of MiGs were called out, combat with the speedy Russian jets was not accomplished."

25 February 1953: On 25 February the 18th Wing flew its first combat mission with Sabres -- a four-plane flight which tacked on to a Yalu sweep.

4 March 1953: The 18th Wing was in action, but Colonel Perego was dissatisfied with the progress that many of his conventional pilots were making. Believing that enough time had been wasted in an effort to qualify men who lacked aptitude, Colonel Perego reassigned 30 pilots to other duties in the Fifth Air Force on 4 March. (Source: USAF in Korea, Robert F. Futrell, p638)

5 March 1953: - With the death of Joeseph Stalin, the new Soviet Premier Georgi Malenkov speaks of a new peaceful coexistence.

March 1953: The 18th FBW faced many difficulties in transitioning to the F-86Fand was only flying fighter-bomber missions. One of the first problems faced by the wing following the retirement of the F-51 was twhat to do with the many high-time Mustang pilots that polulated the trio of squadrons within its charge. The process of retraining and then 'checking out' pilots in the Sabre was very costly, and if the USAF could not get a certain number of missions from a pilot after he had completed the training regimen, then he was considered to be a poor investment. Therefore, it was decided that any Mustang pilot that had flown less than 50 missions in Korea had to transition onto the Sabr, regardless of how he felt about shifting from a piston- to jet-engined fighter. (Source: F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea, Warren Thompson, 1999, p30)


F-80C trainer (early 1953)
(NOTE: At first, F-80s were borrowed from Suwon and Kunsan.
Later each squadron had one F-80C for training.)
(Kenneth Koon, F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea)

According to an article by Warren Thompson, "Many of the 18th FBW's pilots were close to finishing their required 100 missions. It wouldn't have been logical for them to go through an extensive — and expensive — training period in the new Sabre only to rotate back to the United States after a few missions. Instead, pilots with fewer than 50 missions automatically entered the program. The rest had three options: finish their tour with a forward air control "Mosquito" squadron; become advisors to the Mustang-equipped ROKAF; or extend their tours and have a chance to fly the new Sabres." However, there were exceptions with a small number of 'top-timers' volunteered for extensions of their tours to transition to the fighters.


Major Howard Ebersole in Cockpit (1953)
(Howard Heiner, F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea)

However, a different story is told by a Training Supervisor, Maj. Howare R. "Ebe" Ebersole, at Sabre Pilots: 18th FBW Transition. He stated that on 2 March 1953, many of the F51 pilots who were anticipating combat in F-86s were told they were to be transferred either stateside if they had 75 missions -- or become F-86 "advisors" to the T-6 FACs. There were some very unhappy troops and supposedly shots were heard being fired through ceilings that night -- though no one was hurt. On 4 March 1953, the 12th FBS received 16 fresh F-86 pilot training graduates -- all Second Lieutenants. They filled the 12th FBS squadron's table of organization for the allotted number of pilots. By March 31st, the 12th Squadron had 25 F-86Fs. The 67th reached its full complement of Sabres by April 17. Jet trained pilots from Nellis Air Force Base soon began replacing the Mustang pilots of the 18th. (See 8th FBW: for details of F-86F.) (See TROA: "A Wing and a Prayer" for an excellent article by Warren Thompson.)

Maj. Flamm D. Harper, 18th FB Operations Officer and experienced interceptor type brought in to train personnel, stated: "Despite the naysayers of the new fighter-bomber F-86 variant, the Sabre was an excellent "mud-mover", for it could carry two 1000-lb bombs, two external fuel tanks and 1800 rounds of 0.50-cal to any target in North Korea. Due to its speed, the jet took us far less time to accomplish the missions. We could also carry napalm, but we were never tasked to do so. We dis some skip bombing and speed did not prove to be a problem at all." (Source: F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea, Warren Thompson, 1999, p38)

The test flights confirmed the initial impressions of combat pilots in Korea. The MiG-15 was faster than the F-86A and F-86E at altitudes above 30,000 feet, but slower at lower altitudes. Early F-86Fs were superior in speed to the MiG only up to 35,000 feet, whereas the "6-3" F-86Fs were faster than their MiG opponents all the way up to the Sabre's service ceiling.

One of the primary advantages of the MiG over the Sabre was its 4000-foot advantage in service ceiling. It would often happen that F-86s would enter MiG Alley at 40,000 feet, only to find MiGs circling 10,000 feet above them. There was nothing that the Sabre pilots could do unless the MiGs decided to come down and do battle. The high-flying MiGs could pick the time and place of battle, and their higher speed at high altitudes enabled them to break off combat at will when things got too tight. Many a MiG escaped destruction by being able to flee across the Yalu where the Sabres were forbidden to pursue.


F-86F Instrument Panel (1953)
(Ken Smith, F-86 Sabre Fighter-Bomber Units Over Korea)

The Sabre was much heavier than the MiG and had a superior diving speed. Both the MiG and the F-86 could go supersonic in a dive, but the Sabre was much more stable than the MiG in the transonic speed regime. One way for a Sabre to shake a MiG sitting on its tail was for the F-86 pilot to open his throttle all the way up and go over into a dive, pulling its pursuer down to lower altitudes where the F-86 had a performance advantage. Above Mach 0.86, the MiG-15 suffered from severe directional snaking, which made the aircraft a poor gun platform at these high speeds. Buffeting in the MiG began at Mach 0.91, and a nose-up tendency initiated at Mach 0.93. The high-speed stability problems of the MiG-15 were so severe that it was not all that uncommon for a MiG to go into the transonic regime during an air battle, only to lose its entire vertical tail assembly during violent combat maneuvering. The rate of roll of the MiG was too slow, and lateral-directional stability was poor at high altitudes and speeds.

One of the most serious weaknesses of the MiG-15 was its tendency to go into uncontrollable spins, especially in the hands of inexperienced pilots. Many Sabre victories in Korea were scored without the F-86 pilots ever having to fire their guns --- they merely forced their MiG opponents into spins from which their pilots could not recover. An experienced MiG pilot could get himself out of a spin, but the aircraft was somewhat unstable and lacked good stall warning properties.

The turning radius of the MiG was good, somewhat better than that of the F-86A, E and early F. However, this advantage was largely eliminated by the advent of the "6-3" wing of the later F-86F. The good turning radius of the MiG was compromised by poor stalling characteristics. These bad stalling characteristics could get a green MiG pilot into serious trouble during the stress of a dogfight, causing his fighter to suddenly stall, go into an uncontrollable spin, and fall out of the sky.


MiG 15b

In contrast, the spinning characteristics of the Sabre were excellent, and gave most pilots no trouble at all. If the F-86 was forced into a spin, recovery was usually effected by simply neutralizing the controls.

The MiG-15 armament of one 37-mm N-37 cannon and two 23-mm NR-23 guns was designed for attacking bombers, and was not really intended for use against fighters. Forty rounds of 37-mm ammunition and 160 rounds of 23-mm ammunition were carried, a rather low ammunition capacity. The 37-mm gun fired at a rate of 450 rpm, whereas the 23-mm guns each fired at a rate of 650 rpm. The MiG's armament had a good punch, but the rate of fire was too slow to make it effective against nimble, rapidly-maneuvering fighters. In contrast, the F-86's armament of six 0.50-in machine guns had a rapid firing rate and the aircraft carried an ample supply of ammunition. However, the machine guns of the Sabre lacked the stopping power of the MiG's cannon. It was not uncommon for a Sabre pilot to empty all 1600 rounds of his ammunition at a MiG, only to see it escape unscathed.

The gunsight of the MiG-15 was of the simple gyro type, similar to that of the early F-86A. It lacked any radar ranging capability. The radar ranging gunsight of the later Sabres made the F-86 a much more accurate gun platform than the MiG, but this accuracy was sometimes wasted because of the low weight of fire from the machine guns.

The MiG was much lighter than the Sabre, weighing only 11,070 pounds loaded. The take off run to clear a 50-foot obstacle was only 2500 feet, as compared with 3660 feet for the F-86A.

Internal fuel capacity of the MiG was 372 US gallons, compared with 435 gallons for the Sabre. This gave the MiG a range of 480 miles, which could be increased to 675 miles with drop tanks.

During the Korean War, 792 MiG-15s were destroyed by F-86 pilots, with 118 probables being claimed. 78 Sabres were definitely lost in air-to-air combat against the MiGs, with a further 13 Sabres being listed as missing in action. This is about a ten-to-one superiority. From this result, one might naturally conclude that the F-86 was the superior fighter. However, a factor which must also be considered is the relative level of experience and competence of the opposing pilots. The US Sabre pilots were all highly trained and competent airmen, many of whom had extensive World War 2 combat experience. With the exception of some Russian World War 2 veterans who flew MiG fighters in Korea, the MiG pilots were often sent into combat with only minimal flying experience. MiG pilots often exercised poor combat discipline. During the course of battle, MiG pilots would often break off into confusion and panic, firing wildly, and leaving their wingmen unprotected. Often, a MiG pilot in trouble would eject from his plane before anyone actually shot at him. Many MiG pilots were so inexperienced that in the heat of battle they