BRIEFING DOCUMENT: William Harold Kellum

Subject: Life and Military Service of William Harold Kellum

Date: October 26, 2023

Source: https://hotvetsmem.com/kwcas/hotkwrhrbios.html#WHK

1. Introduction:

This briefing summarizes the life and military service of William Harold Kellum, drawing information from the provided text. Kellum's story is one of a young man who served with distinction in the US Army during the Korean War, ultimately sacrificing his life while in captivity.

2. Early Life and Education:

Birth and Family: William Harold Kellum was born on October 20, 1926, in Eastland, Texas. His parents were Jane Elizabeth Wommack and Herman Edward Kellum.

Early Childhood Moves: He lived in Albany, Texas in 1930, and Eastland, Texas by 1935. By 1940, the family had moved to El Dorado, Arkansas. These moves indicate a possible pattern of his father changing work locations.

Education: Kellum received his elementary education in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and El Dorado, Arkansas. He attended high school in Haynesville, Louisiana where he was recognized for his academic achievement and citizenship by being elected to the National Honor Society. This suggests a dedication to both academics and community involvement.

Draft Registration: He registered for the draft on October 20, 1944, in Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, while a student at Haynesville High School. His father, H.E. Kellum, was listed as his next of kin.

3. Military Service:

Initial Enlistment: Kellum served five months in the US Navy towards the end of World War II, being discharged on August 31, 1945.

West Point: He entered West Point in July 1946 and graduated on June 6, 1950, commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. This transition from Navy to Army and attendance at West Point speaks to ambition and a commitment to military service.

Rapid Promotion: He was promoted to First Lieutenant only five months after graduation which is notably quick. This suggests he demonstrated strong leadership potential early in his career.

Deployment to Korea: Kellum was sent to Korea in August 1950, amid the Korean War.

Unit and Context: He served with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. The 24th Infantry Division faced heavy casualties during the retreat from North Korea. The text highlights the chaos and heavy combat of this stage of the war: "...the 24th Infantry Division retreated from North Korea to the Imjin River... having been destabilised by the overwhelming PVA force." The text also notes a major Chinese offensive that pushed the Eighth Army 50 miles back and resulted in the loss of Seoul.

Capture: Kellum was captured on January 3, 1951, during the chaotic withdrawal of US forces. He was taken to a prison camp in Pyoktong, North Korea. Initially, he was listed as missing in action.

4. Captivity and Death:

Resistance: Kellum is described as resisting his communist captors at "every opportunity." This highlights his resilience and refusal to be defeated, even in captivity.

Isolation and Death: His resistance resulted in him being placed in isolation, where he died of "starvation and disease" on June 15, 1951. His death in isolation emphasizes the severe conditions of the prison camps.

Repatriation and Reburial: His remains were returned to the US in 1955, and he was reinterred in the Old Town Cemetery in Haynesville, Louisiana, on September 18, 1955.

5. Awards and Recognition:

Bronze Star: Kellum was awarded the Bronze Star for his leadership before being captured.

Silver Star: He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for the "heroic action in which he was taken prisoner." This shows that even as he was being captured he distinguished himself with acts of bravery.

Purple Heart: He also received the Purple Heart, likely for the wounds he suffered in battle or during his captivity.

6. Conclusion:

William Harold Kellum's story is one of dedicated military service, bravery, and ultimate sacrifice. From his early education to his resistance in a North Korean prison camp, his life reflects his commitment to his nation and his personal integrity. His story is ultimately a tragic one, but also highlights his dedication, bravery, and resilience in the face of immense adversity. The text indicates he was a leader among men who demonstrated integrity, courage, and a strong sense of duty.