The Korean War, which took place from June 25, 1950, to July 27, 1953, began when North Korea launched an attack on South Korea with the aim of conquering the South and gaining control of the entire peninsula. This conflict resulted in significant loss of life, as well as widespread destruction of homes and property. In response, many UN member countries, especially the United States, came together to support South Korea. The U.S. remains a protective force in the region to this day.
General Douglas MacArthur led the Incheon Landing Operation, despite concerns that it was a highly risky endeavor. However, MacArthur’s leadership resulted in a successful recapture of Incheon, thanks to the sacrifices of both Korean and UN soldiers. To honor these sacrifices, the UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea was established on January 18, 1951. With my fellow youth reporters for Leaders Times, I visited the cemetery on June 25 this year, during a ceremony marking the 74th anniversary of the war and paying tribute to the fallen veterans. Interestingly, many non-Korean veterans expressed a desire to be buried in Korea, rather than in their hometowns.
The ceremony began with an opening statement and an overview of the events, followed by a performance of marching and singing by children. We then recited the Pledge of Allegiance, prayed, and sang the Korean national anthem to honor the victims. High-ranking officials in Korea delivered a commemorative address, and a flower-placing ceremony followed, which I believe is one of the most powerful moments of the event. During this part of the ceremony, the representative narrator offered prayers for all the fallen veterans, while flowers were placed by bereaved families and others wishing to express their gratitude.
After attending the ceremony, I felt a deep sense of gratitude toward those who sacrificed their lives to save Korea. I learned that even people without direct ties to the fallen soldiers could donate flowers in their honor, which inspired me to raise awareness of this important UN commemoration. To do so, I, with other youths, help sell T-shirts to raise funds for placing a bouquet on a UN soldier’s tomb. During my visit with other Leaders Times reporters, I also explored a museum that displayed lists and photographs of the UN countries involved in the Korean War. Seeing these images filled me with profound respect for the veterans, as I imagined the immense courage required to face the North Korean Army. Although war inevitably brings great loss, today’s military forces are dedicated to protecting their families, citizens, and countries. As a student, I am committed to supporting these efforts and serving in the military to help safeguard our world.
- Do Yoon Park, Junior (11th grade) at Thomas Jefferson School in St. Louis, Missouri.-
