Evans a U.S. Army Corporal who went Missing in Action during the Korean War near the Chosin Reservoir on December 6, 1950. His remains have never been recovered.
The Battle of Chosin Reservoir was one of the most brutal engagements of the Korean War. Between November 27 and December 13, 1950, approximately 30,000 UN troops were surrounded by 120,000 Chinese forces in freezing conditions.
The 31st RCT, including Evans’ unit, suffered heavy casualties during the withdrawal to Hagaru-ri and later to Hamhung. On November 27, 1950, the 31st Regimental Combat Team (RCT), tasked with replacing the 5th Marine Regiment on the east side of the Chosin Reservoir, arrived at the P’ungnyuri Inlet. That night, Chinese Communist Forces (CCF) launched a massive surprise attack against the 31st RCT. Large-scale attacks continued through December 1, when the RCT withdrew to the town of Hagaru-ri at the base of the Chosin Reservoir.
By December 2, the survivors of the 31st RCT were in place on the defensive perimeter surrounding the town of Hagaru-ri near East Hill. The Chinese attacked their positions on the evening of December 3 and again overnight on December 5-6. A general withdrawal to Hamhung began on December 6.