Reaching Out (First Aid Station, Below the DMZ)
Artist
Larry Burrows
(British, 1926–1971)
DateOctober 5, 1966
Mediumchromogenic print
Dimensionssight: 21 x 32.8 cm (8 1/4 x 12 15/16 in.)
frame: 44.1 x 54.2 cm (17 3/8 x 21 5/16 in.)
frame: 44.1 x 54.2 cm (17 3/8 x 21 5/16 in.)
ClassificationsPhotographs
Credit LineGift of Howard G. Davis, III A.K.A. David Davis
Object number2011.136
Label TextBurrows’ photograph illustrates the tragic effect of “friendly fire” or an accidental attack on one’s own troops. On the left, a bandaged Marine Gunnery Sgt. Jeremiah Purdie lunges toward his comrade who lies seemingly crucified with glazed eyes and a dirt-caked face. The soldiers were awaiting airlift from a first aid station in enemy territory. Ultimately, this injured soldier and two other Americans died as a result of the U.S. attack. Burrows was also a casualty of the Vietnam War; his helicopter was shot down over Laos in 1971. Also onboard were photojournalists Kent Potter of UPI, Keizaburo Shimamoto of "Newsweek," and Henri Huet of the Associated Press.On View
Not on view
