Mr. Bob Vandelinde addressed members of the Rotary Club of SML at a recent club meeting. Mr. Vandelinde has written extensively about Korea and the Korean War. He has authored three books: “A Tribute to Lincoln County Veterans,” “Respect – Forgotten Heroes” and his newest book “Korea.”
Mr. Vandelinde is a veteran of the Korean Conflict. He discussed some of his experiences during the war with club members. Mr. Vandelinde, a native of West Virginia, joined the U.S. Army paratroopers and served in Korea during 1950-1951. He served with the 187th Airborne Infantry and made two combat jumps behind enemy lines in North Korea. During his service Mr. Vandelinde was awarded several medals including the Silver Star, Combat Infantry Badge, two Presidential Unit Citations, Korean Presidential Citation, Purple Heart, and a Navy-Marine Citation.
In 2006, Mr. Vandelinde was honored by the Blue Ridge Airborne Association as the paratrooper of the half century along with paratroopers from Canada, Mexico and Great Britain.
During the Korean War 33,600 American soldiers were killed and over 103,000 were wounded in 1127 days. 7100 were taken prisoners. Of those captured, 51% died in captivity. Mr. Vandelinde’s book Korea is currently available in bookstores.
Photo: Rotary Club of SML President Dave English (right) thanks Korean War veteran and author Bob Vandelinde for is informative presentation to club members about his experience during the Korean War.
