By Rebecca Drew
FASCINATING images of the last time America went to war with Korea have been brought to life in vibrant colour as tensions continue to rumble on today.
The incredible photographs show a US marine raising the United States flag above the American consulate in Seoul, Corporal Robert L. Sutton listening and watching for enemy planes from his tank and the heart-melting moment a marine stopped to feed a kitten during the conflict.
One image shows explosive shots being fired from the USS New Jersey, whilst another depicts men from the British Commonwealth Division operating a 25-pounder field gun.
The pictures were expertly colourised by electrician, Royston Leonard (55) from Cardiff, Wales using Paint Shop Pro software.
“These photos show the American soldiers’ moments in battle in Korea,” said Royston.
“They also show how the United Nations troops fought with them too.
“Other pictures show more quiet moments in the war like people forming new friendships and relationships.”
The Korean War started on June 25, 1950 and ended on July 27, 1953. During the conflict, nearly five-million people died, almost all of which were from Korea.
Almost 40,000 Americans were killed and more than 100,000 were wounded.
Royston digitally paints over the black and white original image and mixes his colours on screen.
“War is hell, no one really wins at the ground level of the battlefield,” added Royston.
“The message is already there for all to see in the pictures themselves but I do feel it helps the younger generation to understand that what happened was real.
“I love giving more life to the pictures and I think that colour improves the story the photographs tell.”
