Assault on Hill 400: The 100-Day Battle for the Strategic Heights

Introduction

The Assault on Hill 400, fought from October 29, 1951, to January 18, 1952, was a pivotal battle of the Korean War. The battle saw fierce fighting between the United Nations forces, primarily led by Canada, and Chinese Communist forces. The strategic importance of Hill 400 made it a fiercely contested position, with both sides suffering heavy casualties.

Strategic Significance

Hill 400, located near the Punchbowl, a valley in the Taebaek Mountains, was a key vantage point overlooking critical supply routes and logistical areas. Controlling the hill provided significant advantages for both sides:

• For the UN forces: It offered an observation point for enemy movements and control of the Kumsong River valley, a vital supply route.
• For the Chinese forces: It provided a defensive position to block UN advances and harass their positions.

The Battle

The Chinese captured Hill 400 in September 1951 and fortified their position with bunkers, trenches, and barbed wire. The UN forces, under the leadership of Brigadier-General James P. Roberts, launched a series of attacks to retake the strategic height.

The fighting was intense, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Canadians, supported by artillery and air power, made gradual progress in the face of determined Chinese resistance.

Key Moments and Dates

• October 29, 1951: UN forces launch their first assault, but are repelled by Chinese forces.
• November 3, 1951: The Royal Canadian Regiment captures Hill 355, a lower elevation near Hill 400.
• November 22, 1951: The Royal 22nd Regiment captures Hill 342, another key point near Hill 400.
• December 1, 1951: The Royal Canadian Dragoons take Hill 400 after a fierce battle.
• December 5, 1951: Chinese forces launch a counterattack, but are repulsed by UN forces.
• January 18, 1952: UN forces consolidate their hold on Hill 400, ending the battle.

Casualties

The battle was one of the bloodiest of the Korean War. The UN forces suffered approximately 1,300 casualties, including 464 killed and 834 wounded. The Chinese casualties are estimated to be significantly higher, with some sources suggesting around 3,000 killed.

Legacy

The Assault on Hill 400 is remembered as a fierce and costly battle that demonstrated the determination and resilience of the UN forces. The battle had a significant impact on the course of the Korean War, halting the Chinese advance and securing a vital strategic position.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When discussing or researching the Assault on Hill 400, it is important to avoid the following common mistakes:

• Oversimplifying the battle: The Assault on Hill 400 was a complex and protracted battle involving multiple phases and contributing factors.
• Downplaying the significance of the battle: Hill 400 was a strategically important objective that played a significant role in the overall outcome of the Korean War.
• Ignoring the casualties: The heavy casualties on both sides highlight the intense and brutal nature of the fighting.

How to Approach the Topic

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Assault on Hill 400, consider the following steps:

• Read historical accounts: Delve into firsthand accounts, memoirs, and scholarly works to gain a detailed perspective on the battle.
• Analyze primary sources: Consult war reports, maps, and other documents to form your own interpretations.
• Visit the battlefield: If possible, visit Hill 400 and its surrounding areas to gain a firsthand experience of the terrain and historical context.

Additional Resources

• Books: "Hill 400: Canadians in Korea, 1950-1953" by Donald E. Graves
• Websites:
  • The Royal Canadian Legion: https://www.legion.ca/en/remembrance/battle-of-hill-400
  • History Channel: https://www.history.com/topics/korea/battle-of-hill-400

Conclusion

The Assault on Hill 400 remains a significant chapter in Canadian and Korean military history. The battle showcased the courage and sacrifice of those who fought on both sides. Its strategic importance and the heavy casualties it inflicted underscore the complex and costly nature of the Korean War.

Keyword-Focused Headings

• Battle of Strategic Importance: The Assault on Hill 400 and the Fight for Control
• Fierce Fighting and Heavy Casualties: The Human Cost of the Assault on Hill 400
• Legacy and Impact: The Battle's Significance in Korean War History

Tables

Table 1: Timeline of Key Events in the Assault on Hill 400

Table 2: Estimated Casualties in the Assault on Hill 400

Table 3: Key Units Involved in the Assault on Hill 400

Table 4: Historical Significance of the Assault on Hill 400