North Korean Propaganda Leaflet
This is an example of one of the dozens of different propaganda leaflets produced by the North Korean government during the Korean War (1950-1953) to drop over US military positions as part of their psychological warfare campaign. The variety of leaflets' messages ranged from criticizing the American and South Korean governments, discussing the mistreatment of American minorities stateside, and the good treatment they would receive upon surrendering to the North Korean's. However, the poor quality, improper or inarticulate language, and the political rhetoric made most of these pamphlets laughable at best which resulted in them being thrown away or used for utility purposes such as toilet paper. This particular example is referencing Private First Class, Walter C. Monegan Jr. who was a US Marine killed in action in 1950 who was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously. This particular example is printed in blue ink and appears crooked on the pamphlet. This artifact was purchased directly from the veteran's estate in the Cleveland area in 2022.
Sourced from Psywarrior
Front Text
"Somewhere in Korea – far away from home. For what and for whom are you going to shed your blood in Korea? U.S. delegation is stalling the armistice talks and forcing you to shed more blood!!"
"Walter C. Monegan Jr. Marine PFC"
"If you are killed in action – This leaflet can be used as a Safe Conduct Pass to come over to the KPA. [coded] 205/30."
Back Text
"In the USA the ruling circles, drinking toasts and dancing are making a night of it while you are shedding your blood and falling on the Korean front. Who, then, will mourn your death. No one but your dear wives, children, parents and sweethearts."
Sourced from Psywarrior
PFC Walter C. Monegan Jr.
"Walter Carleton Monegan Jr. (December 25, 1930 – September 20, 1950) was a United States Marine in the Korean War. On September 20, 1950, he was killed in action near Sosa-ri during the Battle of Inchon in South Korea. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions above and beyond the call of duty on September 17 and 20, which helped to repulse a six-tank enemy attack on his battalion's position and then an overwhelming tank-infantry attack threatening to destroy his company at their position. He was killed after he proceeded to methodically knock out two of the three remaining enemy tanks at close range with his bazooka while under enemy fire. The Medal of Honor was presented to his widow by Secretary of the Navy Dan A. Kimball, during ceremonies on February 8, 1952, in Washington, D.C." (Wikipedia). As stated above, on February 8th 1952, Monegan's widow and infant son were presented his Medal of Honor and that is likely where the North Koreans found his name as well as the photograph of the woman and child pictured on the back of the leaflet.