Begich Statement on Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice
Sixty-two years ago, Communist North Korea invaded the Republic of Korea, initiating the Korean War. The conflict wore on for three years until an armistice was reached on July 27, 1953. To mark the 59th anniversary of the armistice, U.S. Sen. Mark Begich released the following statement:
“Today is a time to remember those who served in the Korean War, especially the 36,500 who perished. For too long, the Korean War was a `Forgotten War' for many Americans. All veterans from the war deserve to be recognized for their honorable service and sacrifice in protecting our allies.
“Today, the Republic of Korea is modern and thriving because of the sacrifices of our military and their families.
“I also want to recognize Alaska Korean War vets whose dedicated efforts culminated in June of this year with the naming of ‘Mt. Chosin Few’ in the Chugach Range in recognition of a horrific and decisive Korean War battle at the Chosin Reservoir in 1950.
“Nearly 1.8 million Americans served along with the forces of the Republic of Korea and 20 other Allied nations under the United Nations Command to defend freedom and democracy on the Korean Peninsula.
“I urge all Alaskans to pay tribute to our Korean War veterans and never forget their contribution to our freedom.”
Posted: July 27, 2012