Thanks, man - Hann Sun Ni, 3, Korean Resident of an orphanage supported by the 822d Engineer Aviation Battalion steps to the speaker's platform to thank the men for their assistance.

 

Stars and Stripes, Dec. 18, 1952

WITH 822D ENGIN AVIATION BN, Dec. 17-They were just kids, a lot like the kids you know back home. Only they were cold and hungry and had long since forgotten how to smile. They were Korean orphans, dividends of a nation ravaged by war. And nobody cared.

BUT AS THE late autumn chill descended on the village, help did come. It came from the soldiers of the 822d Engineer Aviation Battalion, a part of the army's 930th Group working with the Fifth Air Force. Somebody cared.

Chaplain (Capt.) George C. Bridges spirited a hurried campaign for funds to build a home for these 30 kids whose ages ranged between 3 and 15. The $1,900 he collected went into the construction of a warm new building. Tattered clothing was replaced by sturdier garments and the tots ate the first nourishing food many of them could remember.

LEE IK WAHN, a Korean missionary who had been devoted to the youngsters from the beginning, was selected as full-time supervisor of the home. Called simply The Children's Home, the shelter was officially dedicated on Nov. 11, 1952, Armistice day, symbol of peace and hope.

Lt. Col. Carl George Anderson of Excelsior, Minn. Commander of the 822d Battalion, made the dedication speech, telling the children of faith and new courage. Somehow they understood. The children nodded wisely and (. . ?. . ).

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