Bugnon, Leslie D. (1928-1994)

Biographical Information: Born on November 12, 1928 in Minneapolis to Elmer and Laura Bognon, Leslie Bugnon was drafted into service for the Korean War. He spent his training days in South Carolina, and volunteered for overseas duty to leave the United States. Bugnon spent time in close proximity to where the peace talks were occurring at Panmunjom. After the Korean War, was employed by Metallurgical Minneapolis and was a school bus driver. Bugnon passed away on August 21, 1994 and buried in the Minnesota State Veterans cemetery in Little Falls, Minnesota.

Transcript Summary: Leslie Bugnon discussed his experiences during the Korean War. Bugnon was originally drafted for service, and declined an attempt to apply for deferment to avoid being labeled a “draft-dodger.” After his first airplane brought him to South Carolina for training, Bugnon described losing a considerable amount of weight, his waist size dropped from 43” to 34”. The men would wish for kitchen police (KP) duty to be exempt from the grueling training, which included lots of marching and obstacle courses. After volunteering for overseas duty, Bugnon was assigned to a heavy artillery unit in Korea. Gun maintenance was important and Bugnon was offered a promotion to sergeant first class if he re-upped his military service instead of return home after his two years.

Interview by David Overy

Oral history tapes are missing.