No war should be a "forgotten war"!

On June 25, 1950, the North Korean forces crossed the 38th parallel into South Korea and thereby began the Korean War. On July 27, 1953, the Korean War ended in an armistice. The U.N. Security Council recommended “urgent military measures” and called for the nations of the world to repel the invasion. The U.N. Command was headed by the United States with 22 nations in the Coalition that included over the length over 1.8 million U.S. troops.

Yet, today the memory of this effort has faded from most Americans memories. For those involved in combat and their loved ones it was a war - despite Congress never officially proclaiming it as such. Thousands of Americans died, and more were casualties.

To many, Korea is the “forgotten war”

How many readers even know that each year America observe National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day on July 27? Did you honor them that day?

Well, here are some historical facts according to a 2020 VA report:

• There were, 33,700 were actual battle deaths.

• There were 7,140 POW’s during the Korean War. Of these, 4,418 returned to the United States, 2,701 died, and 21 refused repatriations

.• There have been 131 recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor among Korean War veterans.

So next time you watch M A S H, realize that thousands of Americans endured a cruel and deadly war to defend freedom.

Many of those that fought or endured the war are passing from the scene, but the one thing we all can do is remember them and their loved ones.

Look at your local Veteran’s Park or Memorial – does it even have anything about this war?

If not, take action and join Veterans Groups, and concerned citizens and convince your elected officials that no war that Americans fought and died in should ever be forgotten.

You can make a difference!

"The Colonel" Tom Mortenson