Minister Fantino Unveils New Monument to Honour - Canadian Korean War Veterans

SEOUL, Republic of Korea, July 26, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Senator Yonah Martin and Canadian Korean War Veterans unveiled today a new Canadian monument dedicated to the Canadian Armed Forces personnel who fought during the Korean War and to those who served after the Armistice between 1953 and 1957.

"While the horrors and hardships of the Korean War may seem distant, the legacy of our Canadian Veterans remains strong in the form of a free, democratic and prosperous Korea," said Minister Fantino. "We will not forget the service and sacrifices of these brave Canadians and, in their honour, our government is proud to present this monument to the Republic of Korea as a lasting symbol of recognition for Canadian Korean War Veterans."

"We have come here today to honour these brave Canadian Veterans and their sacrifices," said Senator Martin. "By coming to Korea, I return to the country of my birth. I would not be here today had it not been for Canadians and all those who served and gave their lives for me and others. We will ensure their legacy is never forgotten."

The Korean War began on June 25, 1950, when North Korean forces invaded South Korea, beginning hostilities that lasted more than three years. More than 26,000 Canadian men and women served in the Korean War, with 516 making the ultimate sacrifice. Canada joined 15 other United Nations countries in sending combat forces to restore peace.

While the active fighting ended with the signing of the Armistice at Panmunjom on July 27, 1953, approximately 7,000 Canadians continued to serve in Korea until the end of 1955, with some troops remaining until 1957.

This new Canadian monument has been presented to the Republic of Korea as a lasting symbol of the Canadian sacrifice in the Korean War and will rest in the Republic of Korea's War Memorial in Seoul.

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.

Image with caption: "(L-R) Director of the War Memorial Lieutenant-General (Ret'd) Sun Young-Jae, Honourable Park Sung Choon, Minister of Patriots and Veterans, Minister of Veterans Affairs Julian Fantino, Veteran Donald Gallant, Senator Yonah Martin, and Veteran Gerald Lowes unveil the new Canadian monument in the Republic of Korea. (CNW Group/Veterans Affairs Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130726_C9950_PHOTO_EN_29332.jpg

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada

For further information:

Media inquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468

Joshua Zanin
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649