Recognizing the 75th anniversary of the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir during the Korean conflict.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 912
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Armed Forces and National Security
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-11-25: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.
- Last Updated
- 2025-12-11T09:06:47Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This House Resolution (H. Res. 912) aims to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, a major campaign in the Korean War (1950-1953). It honors the bravery and sacrifices of U.S. and allied forces, highlights the battle's historical significance, and encourages national observance to remember the participants.
Key Provisions
- Historical Context: Details the battle from November 27 to December 13, 1950, involving over 100,000 United Nations troops (primarily U.S. Marines, Army, and allies) encircled by Chinese forces in extreme cold weather near the Chosin Reservoir in North Korea. It describes challenges like subzero temperatures, supply shortages, and intense combat.
- Notable Actions: Recognizes specific units and leaders, such as the 1st Marine Division's breakout under Major General Oliver P. Smith (famous for the quote: "Retreat, hell, we're just attacking in a different direction"), Fox Company's defense of Toktong Pass led by Captain William E. Barber, and the Army's Regimental Combat Team 31's valor. It also credits air support from the U.S. Air Force and Navy, and the Hungnam Evacuation (saving over 105,000 troops and 100,000 civilians).
- Casualties and Awards: Notes over 10,500 battle casualties and 7,310 non-battle injuries (mostly from frostbite due to inadequate cold-weather gear), plus 13 Medals of Honor and 78 Service Crosses awarded, making it one of the most decorated U.S. battles.
- Resolution Actions:
- Recognizes the anniversary and honors the U.S. Marine Corps, Army, Navy, Air Force, and allies.
- Commemorates sacrifices, including lives lost, wounds, frostbite, and captivity.
- Highlights the strategic success of the Hungnam Evacuation in preserving forces.
- Encourages observing December 1, 2025, as "Chosin Few Day" with ceremonies and programs.
- Reaffirms national gratitude to Korean War veterans and current service members.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution with no legal force or amendments to existing laws. It serves solely as a formal expression of congressional sentiment and does not create new statutes, regulations, or obligations.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact; it may prompt the Department of Defense or Veterans Affairs to support commemorative events, but no funding or mandates are included.
- On Citizens: Raises public awareness of Korean War history, potentially benefiting veterans through increased recognition and community programs. It encourages nationwide observances, fostering patriotism and education about military service.
- On International Relations: Symbolic nod to U.S.-South Korea alliance during the Korean War; could subtly reinforce U.S. commitments in the region but has no policy implications.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Veterans and Military Personnel: Korean War veterans (especially "Chosin Few" survivors from the 1st Marine Division, 7th Infantry Division, and Regimental Combat Team 31), their families, and current U.S. Armed Forces members who may participate in events.
- Military Branches: U.S. Marine Corps, Army, Navy, and Air Force, honored for their roles.
- Allied and Civilian Groups: United Nations allies (e.g., Republic of Korea forces) and Korean civilians evacuated during the battle.
- Congress and Public: The House of Representatives, which adopts the resolution, and the broader American public through encouraged observances.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal/Constitutional: None significant; as a simple resolution, it requires only House approval (no Senate or presidential involvement) and aligns with Congress's power to express views on military history under Article I of the U.S. Constitution. It poses no challenges to rights or separations of power.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan respect for military heritage (introduced by Rep. Issa, referred to Armed Services Committee), potentially aiding veteran support initiatives. It promotes national unity on defense matters without partisan debate, emphasizing enduring U.S. military valor in the context of ongoing global security concerns.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (14)
Rep. Ellzey, Jake [R-TX-6], Rep. Bacon, Don [R-NE-2], Rep. Crawford, Eric A. "Rick" [R-AR-1], Rep. Moulton, Seth [D-MA-6], Rep. Golden, Jared F. [D-ME-2], Rep. Fleischmann, Charles J. "Chuck" [R-TN-3], Rep. Self, Keith [R-TX-3], Rep. Moore, Barry [R-AL-1], Rep. Deluzio, Christopher R. [D-PA-17], Rep. LaLota, Nick [R-NY-1], Rep. Kiggans, Jennifer A. [R-VA-2], Rep. Fallon, Pat [R-TX-4], Rep. Wilson, Joe [R-SC-2], Rep. McCaul, Michael T. [R-TX-10]
Recent Actions
- 2025-11-25: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.
- 2025-11-25: Submitted in House
- 2025-11-25: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Recognizing the 75th anniversary of the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir during the Korean conflict. — issued 2025-11-25 — PDF (5 pages)