Honoring Veterans of the Korean War BY KORUS HOUSE

Honoring Veterans of the Korean War BY KORUS HOUSE
                   (06/27/08)
Commemorating the start of the Korean War 58 years ago, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea today hosted several events in homage to the veterans who courageously served and sacrificed throughout that conflict.

Korean Ambassador Lee Tae-Sik attended a ceremony this morning at the Korean War Memorial on the National Mall in Washington D.C., along with other embassy officials, to honor the efforts of Korean War veterans. Members of the Korean War Veterans Association (KWVA) of Delaware later paid a special visit to the embassy’s Korus House, for an honorary cultural presentation.

At the KORUS House, Public Affairs Minister Yoon Sock-joong welcomed Delaware KWVA members, thanking them for their perseverance and support through adversity in order to bolster the democratization of Korea. Yoon quoted Ambassador Lee in his earlier remarks to emphasize Korea’s appreciation for the veterans’ roles in the war, saying, “we thank you for your continued courage and sacrifice in your service.”

Hosan Kim of the Korus House then presented a forum on the rich cultural heritage of Korea, giving background information on the land and people as well as its industry and rising status in the global economy. A short film honoring Marguerite “Maggie” Higgins as an instrumental war correspondent during the Korean War paid tribute to her efforts to publicize the issues facing South Korea and the importance of American support.

Members of the Delaware KWVA interacted with Kim as he discussed the influence of Taekwondo and traditional Korean foods as factors propelling the Korean Wave. Captivating clips of Korean martial-artists in action and break dancing performances of b-boy group Last For One set to catchy Korean fusion music received a great response from the audience. The music used in the Dynamic Korea presentations represents a fusion of traditional Korean sounds with fresh rhythms perfect for accompanying the unique dance style of the Korean Wave.

Air Force veteran Ed Pickhaver, currently commander of the Delaware KWVA, pointed to the impressive demonstrations of talent as his favorite part of the presentation. Mick Schroeder, commander of the Delaware KWVA from 2004-2007, seconded Pickhaver’s opinion that the dance and Taekwondo exhibitions were a favorite among the crowd, live performances of which they enjoy from time to time at their own gatherings in their home state of Delaware.

Schroeder who recalls being dispatched in 1953, served thirteen months in Yeongdeungpo, Korea as a radio operator for the Air Force. In his spare time he supported the AACS orphanage in Seoul and formed a bond with many native South Koreans. Although the experiences of the veterans ranged from terrible to encouraging, none seemed to regret their service for their ideals. Some preferred not to return, but Schroeder and his wife visited Korea just a few years ago.
Dr. Carolyn Moore, a fellow veteran who served from 1983-1985 in Seoul as a physician at the 121st Evacuation Hospital, was enthusiastic and happy to share her experiences, recounting a visit with a Korean friend.

The veterans received the presentation with enthusiasm, also remarking on the drastic changes South Korea has experienced since the armistice agreement and post-war reconstruction. They were happy to learn about the dynamic culture of Korea represented in Kim’s presentation, and were pleased to experience different flavors of Korea in the spread of traditional food provided by the embassy.

“The KORUS House should hold more public relation events like this,” said Edith Baker, wife of one veteran, “because not many people are aware of the fact that the US and Korea have a strong and friendly relationship. The fact that the US and Korea have suffered together during wartime makes us feel a lot closer.”
Many members agree that younger generations need to be made aware of the continued struggle in Korea and the necessity of global support spanning cultural boundaries.

The KORUS House, tasked with promoting and explaining the Korean-U.S. relationship through academic and cultural events, extends an open invitation to any groups who wish to attend.

By Leah Booth