The Canadians at the Battle of Hill 355 – October 1951 In the rugged hills of central Korea, one peak stood out for its strategic and symbolic importance, Hill 355, known to the troops as “Little Gibraltar.” Rising 355 meters above sea level, this dominant feature overlooked the surrounding terrain and served as a critical observation and defensive point for United Nations forces. In October 1951, Canadian soldiers found themselves at the heart of a fierce and pivotal battle for control of this hill, one that would test their resolve and cement their reputation as tenacious and disciplined fighters. The Canadian contingent in Korea at the time was part of the 25th Canadian Infantry Brigade, which operated under the 1st Commonwealth Division. The unit most directly involved in the October 1951 battle was the 2nd Battalion of the Royal 22e Régiment, better known as the “Van Doos,”. They had taken up positions near Hill 355, tasked with holding the line against increasing pressure from Chinese forces determined to seize the high ground. On October 22, 1951, the Chinese People's Volunteer Army launched a massive assault on Hill 355. The attack began with a punishing artillery barrage, followed by waves of infantry attempting to overrun the UN positions. The Americans, who initially held the summit, were pushed back under the weight of the assault. The Van Doos, positioned on the flanks and lower slopes, suddenly found themselves exposed and under intense fire. Despite being outnumbered and facing a determined enemy, the Canadians held firm. Over the next several days, they engaged in brutal close-quarters combat, often fighting hand-to-hand in trenches and dugouts. The terrain was unforgiving, and the weather added to the misery, cold, wet, and muddy conditions made movement difficult and sapped the soldiers’ strength. Yet the Van Doos, supported by artillery and reinforcements, refused to yield. Their defense was marked by extraordinary acts of courage and resilience. Canadian machine gunners and riflemen repelled repeated assaults, while stretcher-bearers and medics risked their lives to evacuate the wounded under fire. By the end of October, UN forces had regained full control of Hill 355. The Canadians had played a crucial role in stabilizing the front and preventing a major breakthrough. The cost, however, was significant. The Royal 22e Régiment suffered 16 killed, 44 wounded, and 3 taken prisoner during the engagement. The Battle of Hill 355 demonstrated the professionalism, bravery, and determination of Canadian soldiers in one of the most challenging theatres of the Cold War. It also underscored the importance of international cooperation, as Canadian troops fought alongside Americans, British, Australians, and other UN allies in defense of South Korea.

Sources: Top Photo - Credit: Canada. Department of National Defence / Library and Archives Canada Veterans Affairs Canada Additional Information: Video: Hill 355