The Korean War (1950-53) was a ferocious and brutal conflict that produced over four million casualties in the span of three short years. Despite this, it remains relatively absent from most accounts of mental health and war trauma. Invisible Scars provides the first extended exploration of Commonwealth Division psychiatry during the Korean War and examines the psychiatric-care systems in place for the thousands of soldiers who fought in that conflict. Fitzpatrick demonstrates that although Commonwealth forces were generally successful in returning psychologically traumatized servicemen to duty and fostering good morale, they failed to compensate or support in a meaningful way veterans returning to civilian life. This book offers an intimate look into the history of psychological trauma. In addition, it engages with current disability, pensions, and compensation issues that remain hotly contested and reflects on the power of commemoration in the healing process.

Meghan Fitzpatrick's profile page

Meghan Fitzpatrick is a SSHRC Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Royal Military College of Canada. A graduate of King’s College London and the Institute of Historical Research, her work has appeared in such distinguished publications as the Social History of Medicine.

The ultimate value in Dr. Fitzpatrick’s study reaches well beyond its considerable historical significance… [Invisible Scars] acknowledges advances made in treating these men and women while reminding us that much has yet to be done.

Canadian Military History, Vol 27, Issue 2