Republic of Korea — The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie, attended a commemorative ceremony with Korean War Veterans to mark the 60th anniversary of the Korean War, at the Canadian Korean War Memorial Garden in Naechon.
“It is critical that all of us remember our rich military history and keep commemorative anniversaries like the 60th anniversary of the Korean War relevant for current and future generations. That is why, in January, I named 2013 as the Year of the Korean War Veteran,” said Minister Blaney. “This journey of remembrance allows Canadian Veterans to return to the Republic of Korea and pay tribute to their comrades who never left. We must never forget Canada’s brave men and women and their sacrifices.”
The Memorial Garden is located northeast of Gapyeong-gun, just below the hills where the Battle of Kapyong (now referred to as Gapyeong) took place in April 1951. The Canadian Korean War Memorial Garden commemorates Canada’s assistance during the Korean War.
“I am proud to be a part of the Korea Revisit Program as we mark the Year of the Korean War Veteran in Canada, said Mr. Harry Marshall, Veteran of the Korean War. It is with many mixed emotions that I take this journey, but it is important to honour all of those who served in this war 60 years ago.”
The Korean War began on June 25, 1950, when North Korean forces invaded South Korea, beginning hostilities that lasted more than three years. More than 26,000 Canadian men and women served in the Korean War, with 516 making the ultimate sacrifice. Canada joined 15 other United Nations countries in sending combat forces to try to restore peace.
The active fighting finally ended with the signing of the Armistice at Panmunjom on July 27, 1953. Following the Armistice, approximately 7,000 Canadians continued to serve in Korea until the end of 1955, with some troops remaining until 1957.
2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. For more information on Canada’s role in the Korean War, visit veterans.gc.ca, visit our Facebook “Canada Remembers” page to leave a message of remembrance or follow us on Twitter @VeteransENG_CA.
