Today is Korean Veterans’ Day, when we pause to remember the service and sacrifice of some 18,000 Australians who served in the Korean War.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said that 27 July marks the signing of the armistice in 1953 which finally put an end to more than three years of bloody conflict.
“In 1950, when communist North Korea invaded South Korea, the Second World War was still fresh in our minds and Australia’s defence forces had completed a mass demobilisation – the last thing anyone wanted was another war,” Minister Keogh said.
“Australians answered the call to arms and joined a United Nations coalition to repel the invading forces.”
More than 350 Australians lost their lives during the Korean War and in the post-armistice period, with more than 1,200 being wounded and 30 taken prisoner. Personnel from all three armed forces served, including nurses of the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps and Royal Australian Air Force Nursing Service.
“After three years of fighting in harsh conditions, Australians remained for another four years to help maintain a fragile truce,” Minister Keogh said.
“While some may call it ‘the forgotten war’, we have never forgotten the Australians who served with distinction in the Korean War, especially those who paid the ultimate price.
“I ask all Australians to join me in paying tribute to all those who served in this conflict on Korean Veterans’ Day.
“Lest we forget.”
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