Korean War Veterans Will Not Be Forgotten
KOSCIUSKO COUNTY — The Korean War, 63 years ago, from June 25, 1950, to July 27, 1953, is a forgotten war and its veterans also are often forgotten. But not in Kosciusko County. It is estimated there are close to 80 Korean War veterans residing in the county.
A ceremony honoring those veterans, residing in Kosciusko County, will be held at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2, during First Friday events in Warsaw. The ceremony will take place at the War Memorial on the southwest side of the courthouse.
A roll call will be read of all those who have had their names submitted with an opportunity to recognize each individual. Those who have had their name submitted will receive a special coin from former Sgt. 1st. Class Jordan Mayfield, who will appear in uniform. The coin, with the American flag, a saluting soldier and words honor and courage, has been purchased by McHatton-Sadler Funeral Home, to honor these individuals.
Warsaw Mayor Joe Thallemer, whose father is a Korean veteran, will be the guest speaker. Individuals involved in the Honor Flights may be present. Additional details of the event are still being formulated.
Veterans, family members, neighbors of a Korean veteran, residing in the county, are encouraged to submit the name, rank and branch of service and time served to the Honor and Remember Committee. The deadline is fast approaching to have the names added to the roll call, Aug. 19 is the final day. Only those whose names have been submitted will receive the special coin.
Submissions may be mailed to GWMA, P.O. Box 1797, Warsaw, IN 46581 or email the information to [email protected].
Family members are encouraged and welcome to join in the celebration.
It was several years ago when 80 veterans of World War II were honored. A ceremony is also planned for the Vietnam veterans in 2020.
“It’s never too late to thank a veteran,” said Ken Locke, Honor and Remember Committee member. “Our goal is to continue recognizing veterans.”
Other members of the committee include Mayfield, John Sadler and Paula Bowen.