MASH stood for Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. These innovative medical units were a lifeline for wounded soldiers during the Korean War in the 1950s. Unlike traditional field hospitals, MASH units were designed to be highly mobile and deployable close to the front lines. This meant surgeons could operate on critically injured soldiers much faster, significantly improving their chances of survival.
Imagine a sprawling network of tents set up near the battlefields. Inside these tents, a team of skilled doctors, nurses, and support staff worked tirelessly around the clock. The MASH units were typically equipped with 60 beds, operating rooms, and triage areas for prioritizing patients. Helicopters became a game-changer, allowing for rapid medical evacuation of wounded soldiers directly to the MASH units.
While the exact number of MASH units deployed in Korea is debated, historical records suggest there were at least eight. These units played a crucial role in saving countless lives. The doctors faced unimaginable pressure, performing countless surgeries under difficult conditions. Despite the harsh realities of war, the MASH units became a symbol of hope and resilience for the soldiers fighting on the front lines.
This footage is from Operation Little Switch, which took place from April 20, 1953 through April 26, 1953 during the Korean War. According to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, "Weary of fighting, both sides soon agreed to exchange sick and wounded prisoners. Between April 20 and May 3, 1953, Operation Little Switch exchanged a total of 6,670 Chinese and North Korean prisoners and 669 UN personnel. The main prisoner exchange took place after the armistice was signed three months later."

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