History of the Republic of Turkiye

Turkish Brigade
Members of the Turkish Brigade.
1950 Jan 1 - 1953 Oct 19

Turkish Brigade

Korean Peninsula

The Turkish Brigade was an infantry brigade of the Turkish Army that served under United Nations Command during the Korean War (1950–1953). Turkey was one of 22 countries to contribute manpower to U.N. forces, and one of sixteen to provide military personnel. The first 5,000 troops of the Turkish Brigade arrived on 19 October 1950, shortly after the outbreak of hostilities in June, and remained in varying strengths until summer 1954. Attached to the United States 25th Infantry Division, the Turkish Brigade was the only U.N. unit of its size permanently attached to a U.S. division throughout the Korean War.


The Turkish Brigade took part in several actions, most notably in the Battle of Kunuri, where their fierce resistance were decisive in delaying the enemy advance. Its actions earned the brigade Unit Citations from Korea and the U.S., and it subsequently developed a reputation for its fighting ability, stubborn defense, commitment to mission, and bravery.