Government of Canada Marks the 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice

BRAMPTON, ON, July 27, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Honourable Rob Nicholson, Minister of National Defence, joined Veterans and youth today to commemorate the 60^th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice at a memorial service at the Korea Veterans National Wall of Remembrance in Brampton, Ontario.

"Today we remember and are grateful to those brave men and women who served during the Korean War and we mourn the loss of the 516 Canadians who made the ultimate sacrifice," said Minister Fantino. "July 27, 2013, not only marks the 60^th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, but it also marks the first annual Korean War Veterans Day in Canada. This is a special day in honour of the sacrifices and contributions of Canada's Veterans of the Korean War."

Minister Nicholson laid a wreath and placed a poppy at the Korea Veterans National Wall of Remembrance during the memorial service. Following the ceremony, a luncheon with Korean cultural entertainment was held where Minister Nicholson spoke about the importance of remembering the sacrifices of all Veterans who served in the Korean War.

"The Korean War was one of Canada's most significant military engagements. Those who fought there, many of whom gave their lives, must not be forgotten," said Minister Nicholson. "Our Government is committed to preserving the legacy of our Veterans and ensuring that younger generations are aware of the important contribution of Canadian Veterans to our nation's history."

This year marks the 60^th anniversary of the Armistice that ended the active fighting in the Korean War and the 50^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and South Korea.

From 1950 to 1953, more than 26,000 Canadians served in Korea - working to restore peace and stability to the area. On July 27, 1953, the Korea Armistice Agreement was signed, ending three years of fighting. Approximately 7,000 Canadians continued to serve there between the signing of the Armistice and the end of 1955. Some Canadian troops remained until 1957. In total, 516 brave young Canadians made the ultimate sacrifice during the Korean War.

2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran - Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. For more information on Canada's role in the Korean War, visit veterans.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada