The Han River Estuary does not merge into the sea, but loses itself in a spiderweb of narrow channel and mud flats: no place for ships to move or manoeuvre. Fourteen Allied ships including Murchison took part in a long, tedious and dangerous operation whichwas planned to extend penetration into enemy territory. On 17 September 1951 Murchison began her fourth Han River patrol. The early days followed the usual pattern and were uneventful but on the twelfth day, 28 September, the frigate was underway along the north bank of the Han when concealed batteries of 75mm guns and 50mm mortars opened fire. Murchison responded with her 4-inch guns and with rapid short-range fire, silencing all opposition. Two days later she returned to the scene of the engagement. The enemy, apparently expecting her return, had in the meantime strengthened their artillery. A second gun duel ensued, fought at such short range that Murchison‘s gunners were firing over open sights at a rate of 20 shells a minute.
Recorded on 7th February, 1975
Duration is 82 minutes
