Korean War Monument Dedication Held in Pulaski County, Missouri

Patriotic Pulaski County has a long and proud tradition of patriotism. Another symbol of our patriotic pride was unveiled Monday, November 11, 2013 at Missouri Veterans Cemetery- Fort Leonard Wood. The Pulaski County Korean Association dedicated their gift, the Korean War Memorial monument to gathered onlookers and dignified guests in a ceremony that started at 9:00 a.m..

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by attendees after the singing of the National Anthem of the United States of America and the National Anthem of the Republic of Korea.

A member of Harry L. Herron Disabled American Veterans Chapter 49 salutes the American flag during the National Anthem of the United States of America.

The monument is a tribute to the 358 soldiers from 62 counties surrounding Pulaski County that gave their lives during the Korean War.

Speakers included Charles G. Baxter (Director, Missouri Veterans Cemetery- Fort Leonard Wood), 1SG (Ret.) Walter B. Dixon (Former POW/MIA- Korean War), Kyong Rainbolt (President, Pulaski County Korean Association), Stan Baughn (Director, Missouri Cemeteries Program- Missouri Veterans Commission) and Jin-hyun Lee (Consul, Korean Consulate in Chicago).

1SG (Ret) Walter B. Dixon speaks about his experience as a POW during the Korean War. Mr. Dixon also recited some of his poetry.

Mrs. Kyong Rainbolt, President of Pulaski County Korean Association spoke of her appreciation for those who served in the Korean War.

Distinguished guests included Steve Lynch (State Representative District 122), COL Bjarne M. Iverson (Chief of Staff, Maneuver Support Center of Excellence- Fort Leonard Wood), CSM Terrence Murphy (Command Sergeant Major, Maneuver Support Center of Excellence- Fort Leonard Wood), George Sanders (Mayor of Saint Robert), Luge Hardman (Mayor of Waynesville), Dr. Virgie Mahan (President, Assistance Association), Members of Harry L. Herron Disabled American Veterans Chapter 49, and Pastors of Korean Churches.

After the unveiling and acceptance of the monument Mr. Lee expressed appreciation for all those who served in the Korean War and Mrs. Rainbolt described the war as “America’s forgotten victory”. Both Mr. Lee and Mrs. Rainbolt reminded those in attendance that “Freedom is Not Free”. 60th Anniversary coins were presented to the Korean War Veterans in attendance by Mr. Lee.

Mrs. Kyong Rainbolt & Mr. Jin-hun Lee moments after the Korean War Memorial at Missouri Veterans Cemetery- Fort Leonard Wood was unveiled. The monument is a gift from Pulaski County Korean Association. Photo by Daily Guide.

After the monument was unveiled Mr. Jin-hyun Lee presented 60th Anniversary commemorative coins to the Korean War Veterans in attendance. Photo by Daily Guide.

Governor Jeremiah W. (Jay) Nixon issued a proclamation that was read by Charles Baxter. The proclamation recognizes that “trade and economic development, tourism and educational and cultural exchanges advance our peoples and peoples around the world and promote peace” and also commended the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Chicago “for honoring Korean War veterans and their families and friends”.

Governor Jay Nixon’s Proclamation was read by Charles Baxter.

The Korean War was fought from 25 June, 1950 until an armistice was signed by South Korea and North Korea 27 July, 1953. The United States sent 480,002 troops to aid South Korea against the North Korean invaders. Of these, the United States had 36, 503 casualties and 92, 073 wounded. The sacrifices made by American troops greatly helped South Korea and its people, and also helped to stop the spread of communism.

Korean War Veterans gather around their monument at Missouri Veterans Cemetery- Fort Leonard Wood. The monument is a gift from Pulaski County Korean Association. Photo by Pulaski County Tourism Bureau.

Pulaski County Tourism Bureau is proud to include this newest monument, a gift from the Pulaski County Korean Association as a stop on our Veterans Memorial Tour. This self guided driving tour directs visitors and tourists to nine tributes to our veterans that are in Pulaski County, Missouri. For your complimentary brochure call 877-858-8687 today.

Korean War Memorial at Missouri Veterans Cemetery- Fort Leonard Wood in Pulaski County, Missouri. The monument is a gift from Pulaski County Korean Association. Photo by Pulaski County Tourism Bureau.