The Department of Defense Korean War 60th Anniversary Committee has opened an online forum for Korean War Veterans and those affected by the war to submit their stories.

“A little over 100 miles out … the engine exploded on us and caught fire,” shared Lt. Col. William McCowen of the United States Air Force, who survived the Korean War and the plane crash that nearly killed him.

The opportunity to document these experiences is fleeting. That is why the DoD is coordinating projects, events and opportunities for Korean War Veterans leading up to “Heroes Remembered,” a national tribute to Korean War veterans on the 60th anniversary of the Armistice Signing that ended the conflict.

Like Lt. Col. William McCowen, many Korean War Veterans today are in their 80’s and have endured the heartache of losing over 100,000 of their fellow soldiers. Their stories of survival, persistence and sacrifice remind us that freedom in the United States comes at a cost.

“It is imperative that the Veterans from all services who served in the Korean War are recognized and remembered for their service and sacrifice,” said Colonel David J. Clark, Director of the Department of Defense 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Commemoration Committee.

The Korean War 60th Anniversary Commemoration Committee encourages everyone to attend or watch the televised ceremonies for “Heroes Remembered,” a national tribute on July 27 taking place in Washington, D.C. For more information about “Heroes Remembered,” please visit: www.koreanwar60.com/27july.