The Jacksonville community recently held celebrations and remembrances marking the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, which was July 27. Residents and group leaders expressed gratitude to the Korean War veterans who fought to free the Korean people from the oppression of Communism.
The Jacksonville Naval Museum, the Korean War Veterans Chapter 200 and the We Can Be Heroes Foundation hosted the Armistice Remembrance at the USS-Orleck DD-886 Jacksonville pier. Museum volunteer Michael Morris shared the history of the USS Orleck’s engagements during the Korean War.
Young Chul Kim, honorary member of the Korean Association of North Florida, shared his story of Korean life before and after the war. Dr. Henry Moreland, commander of the North Florida Korean War and Korean Service Veterans Chapter, spoke about their history defending Korea. Beth Heath, president of the We Can Be Heroes Foundation, shared stories of the hardships the Korean War veterans suffered in their quest for freedom for the Korean people.
Honorary tributes to Korean War veterans included the flag line presented by the American Legion Riders 5th District, escorts by the Mayport Sea Scouts and taps by bugler Jim Steele.
Karim Zabaneh performed the National Anthem and closed with “God Bless America.” Colors were presented by the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Bishop Kenny High School Color Guard.
The Korean Association of North Florida hosted the annual appreciation luncheon on July 29 at the Fleet Reserve Branch 126. The large luncheon included welcome and appreciation speeches by association President Ohhan Kim, liaison Jea Y.Lee and many members. Members performed traditional Korean music, song and dance in honor of the Korean War veterans. The association presented guests with U.S. and South Korea flags.
