Originally Posted By: Buckspen
Thank you, Steve. One of the most interesting features of this Smithsonian is that a previous owner scribed his name, social security number and what appears to be a US Army service number on the back of the sheath. My wife, who happens to be a master internet searcher and genaelogy expert, was able to turn up the following information.
Donald J. Monterosso is the name on the back of the sheath. He was born on 1/31/1931 in Michigan and served in the 32nd Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, U.S. Army in Korea with the rank of Corporal. He took part in the landing at Inchon, North Korea and five other major battles and received the Combat Infantry Badge, Purple Heart and three unit citations. He was with First Sgt. Ben Wilson when Wilson won the Medal of Honor and Purple Heart on June 5, 1951 at Hwachon. Monterosso died on 1/14/2000 and is buried in Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan.
May he rest in peace.
(Please note that I am not saying this is a 1950's knife. Obviously, it is not. I just think it is interesting that this decorated Korean war veteran owned this knife at some time in his life.)
- - - - - Buckspen


If you want a true trip into horror, read about the 7th Infantry Division in Korea. Inchon, and then Chosin Reservoir where elements of the division suffered 90 percent casualties east of the reservoir (the Marines were west of the reservoir). The 31st and 32nd regiments of the 7th Infantry were destroyed ... not a pleasant read. And then later they were committed onto Porkchop Hill! This man had a truly historic and horrific combat experience.

http://www.history.army.mil/books/korea/30-2/30-2_6.HTM


Edited by Jacknola (07/15/14 09:04 PM)
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Jack Williams