The Joint Korean War 60th Anniversary Commemoration Committee
What is it'
The Korean War 60th Anniversary Commemoration Committee (60th AKWCC) was formed by the Department of Defense to thank and honor all the veterans of the Korean War, their families and especially those who lost loved ones in that war.
The Committee observed the beginning of the Korean War on June 25, 2010 at the Pentagon, with a host of dignitaries and veterans in the audience. Col. David J. Clark, director of the 60th AKWCC, honored and thanked the veterans who served with honor and distinction: "Through your heroic actions, the tide of communism on the Korean Peninsula was halted and the foundation was laid for today's modern, vibrant Republic of Korea."
What has the Army done'
Veterans Day 2010 presented an opportunity for the Committee to recognize the sacrifices of those who served during the years 1950-1953. Outreach events included a historic Veterans Day parade in New York City and observances in the National Capital Region and in Baltimore, Maryland. The 60th AKWCC continues to take shape and now includes three Soldiers (in addition to the Executive Director) and two Army civilians who will be actively engaged in planning and supporting outreach initiatives. Other service branches are providing staff so as to underscore that this is a Department of Defense initiative.
What efforts does the Army have planned for the future'
To educate the public about the "Forgotten Victory," the Committee will organize local, regional and national observances that will generally follow the timeline of key events as they transpired 60 years ago.
Why is this important to the Army'
The Korean War was the first test of the United Nations' resolve to stand against tyranny in all its forms. Twenty-one nations joined the United States and South Korea in a display of solidarity to turn back naked aggression and stem the tide of communism.
The Soldiers who shivered in the trenches and trekked through knee-deep mud exemplify the selfless sacrifice required in the defense of Freedom. One hundred thirty one Medals of Honor were awarded for "conspicuous gallantry" in the Korean War: 79 were presented to Soldiers. Their legacy is today's Army and our Soldiers stand on their remarkable achievements.
Furthermore, when the Korean War is viewed through the prism of recent hostilities between North Korea and the Republic of South Korea, we are reminded that we must remain ever vigilant against the forces of tyranny and oppression.
Resource:
<a href="http://www.army.mil/standto/archive/2010/06/25/" target="_blank"> Related STAND-TO! edition : June 25, 2010: 60th Anniversary of the Korean War</a>
<a href="http://www.army.mil/koreanwar/"target="_blank">60th Anniversary of the Korean War website</a>
<a href="http://www.army.mil/veterans"target="_blank">U.S. Army Veterans website</a>
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