4 years ago
70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE START OF THE KOREAN WAR
SHAYNE NEUMANN MP
Today marks 70 years since the beginning of the Korean War, which saw Australian service personnel fight as part of a United Nations (UN) multinational force, defending South Korea against invading forces from North Korea and China between 1950 and 1953.
On 25 June 1950, North Korean forces crossed the border and proceeded towards Seoul, taking the capital within days, before continuing towards the port of Busan.
The Australian Government quickly became involved in the war, committing personnel from the Navy, Army and Air Force to fight as part of a UN force.
After three years of fighting, an armistice was signed on 27 July 1953 after more than two years of negotiations, although Australia maintained a presence in Korea until 1957.
Australian soldiers, sailors, airmen and nurses won international respect for their courage, endurance and combat skills in Korea, particularly through significant military victories at Kapyong in April 1951 and Maryang San in October 1951.
More than 18,000 Australians served during the Korean War and in the Post-Armistice peace-keeping phase, including some 50 nurses.
Tragically, 340 died, some 1,500 were injured, 30 were taken prisoner and 43 are still listed as missing in action.
On 25 June, as we acknowledge the 70th anniversary of the start of this conflict, I encourage all Australians to pause and remember the service and sacrifice of all the brave Australian men and women who served during the Korean War and say “thank you for your service”.
Lest we forget.
On 25 June 1950, North Korean forces crossed the border and proceeded towards Seoul, taking the capital within days, before continuing towards the port of Busan.
The Australian Government quickly became involved in the war, committing personnel from the Navy, Army and Air Force to fight as part of a UN force.
After three years of fighting, an armistice was signed on 27 July 1953 after more than two years of negotiations, although Australia maintained a presence in Korea until 1957.
Australian soldiers, sailors, airmen and nurses won international respect for their courage, endurance and combat skills in Korea, particularly through significant military victories at Kapyong in April 1951 and Maryang San in October 1951.
More than 18,000 Australians served during the Korean War and in the Post-Armistice peace-keeping phase, including some 50 nurses.
Tragically, 340 died, some 1,500 were injured, 30 were taken prisoner and 43 are still listed as missing in action.
On 25 June, as we acknowledge the 70th anniversary of the start of this conflict, I encourage all Australians to pause and remember the service and sacrifice of all the brave Australian men and women who served during the Korean War and say “thank you for your service”.
Lest we forget.