Historical Milestones

Chinese forces launch massive surprise attack on US Marines at Yudam-ni. Eight divisions — approximately 40,000 troops — strike the 5th and 7th Marine Regiments simultaneously from multiple directions.

"We've been looking for the enemy for several days now. We've finally found them. We're surrounded." — Col. Homer Litzenberg

Marines and Army engineers hold a critical perimeter around a half-finished airstrip. The strip, extended under fire to 3,200 feet, evacuates 4,500 wounded and brings in supplies and replacements.

"We are coming out of this as Marines, not as stragglers." — Maj. Gen. Oliver P. Smith

The 5th and 7th Marines begin their 14-mile fighting withdrawal from Yudam-ni to Hagaru-ri. Three days and nights of continuous combat through Chinese-held mountain passes — no man left behind.

"Retreat, Hell! We're just attacking in a different direction." — Maj. Gen. Oliver P. Smith

The combined column of 10,000 men moves 11 miles south through Hell Fire Valley — scene of the Task Force Drysdale disaster — to reach Colonel Chesty Puller's garrison at Koto-ri.

"The enemy is in front of us, behind us, to the left and right of us. They won't escape this time." — Col. Lewis Puller

Chinese engineers have blown the only bridge over a 29-foot gorge at Funchilin Pass. C-119 Flying Boxcars airdrop M2 Treadway bridge sections — a first in military history — and engineers install the bridge overnight under fire.

"The bridge is in. Column can proceed." — Radio transmission, 0600, December 9, 1950

The Chosin Few reach the sea. Task Force 90 — 193 ships — evacuates 105,000 troops and 98,000 Korean civilian refugees. Operation ends Christmas Eve. The 1st Marine Division departs battle-ready, undefeated.

"We came out as Marines, not as stragglers." — Chosin Survivor