How did Marines build and use the airfield at Hagaru-ri?

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Battle of the Chosin Reservior — Battle of the Chosin Reservoir Men and armor of the U.S. 1st Marine Division during the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, North Korea, December 1950.

During the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, General Oliver P. Smith utilized an operational pause to strengthen the defenses of Hagaru-ri and construct a rough airfield. This airstrip was critical for the survival of the 1st Marine Division, as it allowed for emergency resupply and the evacuation of wounded personnel.12

Once the 5th Marines and 7th Marines successfully reached the Hagaru-ri perimeter, they ensured the airfield remained secure from Chinese fire. Marine and air force transport aircraft subsequently used the facility to deliver essential supplies, such as ammunition and gasoline, while evacuating 4,500 casualties. The arrival of these supplies was vital, as the division required fuel and ammunition to reorganize and eventually fight its way south to the coastal plain.2