Outbreak of war Chaplain–Medic massacre

front line of korean war, july 13, 1950

following invasion of republic of korea (south korea) northern neighbor, democratic people s republic of korea (north korea), united nations committed troops conflict prevent collapse of south korean state. however, number of u.s. forces in far east available support effort had been steadily decreasing since end of world war ii, 5 years earlier. closest u.s. division, 24th infantry division of eighth united states army, headquartered in japan, understrength, , of equipment antiquated due defense cutbacks enacted in first truman administration. nevertheless, 24th infantry division first unit sent korea absorb initial shock of north korean advances , buy time deployment of additional forces, such 7th infantry division, 25th infantry division, 1st cavalry division, 1st provisional marine brigade , other eighth army supporting units.