The Korean War started 75 years ago, and on Wednesday, the community honored veterans and their families with a Remembrance Ceremony at the VA Medical Center in Vancouver

Paul Valencia
Clark County Today

It was 75 years ago when the Korean War started, a conflict that lasted three years before the ceasefire, a conflict that took the lives of more than 36,000 Americans.

That is a sacrifice that cannot be forgotten.

That is the mission of organizers for the Korean War Veterans Remembrance Ceremony on Wednesday on the campus of the VA Medical Center in Vancouver.

“We gather today to remember a conflict often referred to as the Forgotten War. but today, and every day, we choose to remember,” said Jullie Ji, the master of ceremonies. “We remember the valor, the sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of the brave men and women who served on the Korean Peninsula.”

In all, more than 1.7 million Americans answered the call in Korea. 

“As we reflect on the past, let us look forward to the future of the alliance between the United States and the Republic of Korea, that it will continue to grow stronger,” said Byung “BJ” Ji, the co-chairman of the Korean War Veterans Memorial Committee. 

“To all our veterans here today, thank you,” BJ continued. “Thank you for your service, for your sacrifice, and for your unwavering devotion to freedom. Because of you … the Korean War is no longer the Forgotten War. Today we remember, we honor, and we promise never to forget.”

The names of the 39 soldiers from Clark County who died in the Korean War were read, each accompanied by the ringing of a bell.

Two Korean War veterans received gifts from the Quilts of Valor.

Two other Korean War veterans — Ed Barnes and Robert Sumrill — presented a wreath, placing it in front of the Clark County memorial. 

Glen Yung, Clark County councilor, also shared his appreciation for the veterans.

“I stand before you … not as a veteran but as a son of a veteran and a grateful American,” Yung said. “I have never worn the uniform myself and I’m fully aware the peace I’ve enjoyed throughout my life has only been possible because others have stepped up and answered the call.

“I know I haven’t been tested the way that many of you have and I was never called on to do so … That’s exactly why I feel so deeply compelled to say I am forever grateful for your service.”

The Korean War started on June 25, 1950. A truce was called in July 1953. Official Pentagon figures list more than 36,000 Americans dead.

Today, there are more than 28,000 U.S. military personnel stationed in South Korea alongside their Korean allies.

“The Korean War forged an alliance between the United States and the Republic of Korea that remains strong to this day,” Jullie Lie said. “That alliance stands as a living legacy of the sacrifice made by so many, and a reminder that freedom is never free.”