Australians
should pause and remember those who served in the Korean
War and post armistice period on today’s 63rd
anniversary of the signing of the armistice.
Some 18,000
Australians served in Korea, including during the
post-armistice period, with more than 350 Australians
losing their lives and some 1,500 wounded.
The
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister Assisting
the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC, the Hon
Dan Tehan MP, said Australia’s role in the Korean War
and the post-armistice period was another proud chapter
in the nation’s military history.
"Our
soldiers, sailors, airmen and nurses made an important
contribution to the international effort and furthered
our reputation as a nation willing and able to do its
part," Mr Tehan said.
"On the
anniversary of the signing of the armistice we should
reflect on the service and sacrifice of the men and
women who served in the Korean War and the
post-armistice period.
"We should
also reflect on more than 350 Australians who paid the
ultimate price and did not return home.
"Today a
grateful nation says thank-you for that service."
Mr Tehan
said a veterans’ mission would travel to Korea in
October to commemorate the 65th anniversaries of the
battles of Kapyong and Maryang San.
A high school education kit about
the Korean War will be released later this year.
