The NYC Veterans Oral History Project: Jefferson McCrary Jr, Veteran Interview Part 1

February 13, 2013

Jefferson McCrary (Part 1 of 2):

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Brief Biography:

Jefferson McCrary Jr. recorded his oral history on February 13th, 2013 at the James J. Peters Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Bronx, NY. Mr. McCrary was a private in the Army during the Korean Conflict. The most memorable memories for Mr. McCrary where when he ran the mess hall and explains how to efficiently serve 400 people in one hour. While in the service, Mr. McCrary sustained several injuries such as a nasty frostbite that still gives him troubles today. At the end of the interview, Mr. McCrary proudly proclaims he has just shared his life story.

Major points in interview Part I:
  • 0:30: Mr. McCrary introduces himself and talks about his basic training
  • 3:00: Being stationed in Seattle
  • 3:25: Difficulties in joining the National Guard.
  • 5:46: Epidemic that broke out in Mr. McCrary's group
  • 6:30: The incident when Mr. McCrary blacks out & is pronounced "dead"
  • 9:55: What an average day in Korea looked like
  • 12:54: Advice to fellow soldiers
  • 14:33: Mr. McCrary talks about his company
  • 18:58: Food in the army
  • 19:54: What elements of his service Mr. McCrary looks back fondly on
  • 22:00: Culture shock when traveling abroad
  • 23:30: Mr. McCrary discusses his various injuries from the war
Major points in interview Part II:
  • 0:05: Continued discussion of Mr. McCrary's medical conditions
  • 1:53: What Mr. McCrary would do differently
  • 3:09: Losing friends while serving and questions Mr. McCrary has
  • 5:37: Married life
  • 15:24: Explanation of Mr. McCrary's story
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