The Chosun Daily
U.S. Honors 1.8 Million Korean War Veterans on 73rd Anniversary
Republican, Democratic lawmakers and officials commemorate sacrifices, reaffirm U.S.-South Korea alliance forged through shared sacrifice
By Kim Eun-joong
On July 27, the 73rd anniversary of the Korean War Armistice Agreement, U.S. House Republicans stated, “We honor the 1.8 million Americans who answered the call in the ‘Forgotten War.’ They fought through bitter cold, relentless artillery fire, and unimaginable hardships to ensure freedom survived on the Korean Peninsula. Too many never returned home, and we will never forget their sacrifice.” Approximately 1.78 million U.S. troops served during the Korean War, with 37,000 killed in action. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim Risch, a Republican, added, “We must never forget the courage of the veterans and the sacrifices made to defend freedom and enduring values.”
Republican Senator Tim Scott remarked, “Seventy-three years ago today, the armistice brought an end to ongoing battles. We honor the Korean War veterans who answered the call to military service. Their courage, selflessness, and sacrifices to defend freedom will never be forgotten.”
Cindy Hyde-Smith, a Republican senator, stated, “We honor the bravery and sacrifice of the courageous Americans who fought for freedom and democracy on the Korean Peninsula and are eternally grateful for their service.”
Andy Kim, a Democratic senator of Korean descent, said, “The alliance and partnership between South Korea and the U.S. are essential to maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific and building a more resilient future. We can create economic opportunities for future generations in both nations.”
Michael DeSombre, Deputy Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs at the State Department, spoke at the 73rd anniversary commemoration held at the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. He stated, “July 27, 1953, marked not only the end of hostilities but also the birth of an enduring alliance forged through shared sacrifice. The two nations fought together against communism to defend democracy and freedom on the Korean Peninsula. Our mission today is to safeguard prosperity, security, and peace so that we are prepared to stand side by side if the need to fight arises again.” DeSombre, whose spouse is of Korean descent, added, “Without the sacrifices made to defend a free Korea, I would not have met my wife.”
John Tilelli, former Commander of the U.S. Forces Korea and chairman of the Korean War Veterans Memorial Foundation (KWVMF), which hosted the event, said, “Some still question the U.S.-South Korea relationship. I urge you to honor the sacrifices of those who gave their lives and not to regard this war as the ‘Forgotten War.’” In May, U.S. President Donald Trump sent a rare congratulatory message to a KWVMF-hosted dinner for veterans, stating, “The U.S. will never forget the immeasurable sacrifices of the men and women who served in the Korean War. The courage of the veterans liberated the oppressed and brought peace and prosperity to countless freedom-loving people.”