After 60 Years, Saying Thanks

It has been 60 years since the Korean Armistice and American soldiers quietly came home to move on with their lives. On Sunday, Dec. 8, the Korean and American community will gather to honor area veterans who served in the war with a multi-cultural event at 2:30 p.m. in the Hamden Middle School auditorium, at 2623 Dixwell Ave.

“This will be an opportunity for learning, recognizing the sacrifices of Korean War veterans, and some great entertainment as well,” said Abner Oakes, chairman of the Hamden Veterans Commission. “The support from the Korean-American groups has been gratifying.” 

“My family was in North Korea during the war and if not for the American soldiers, we never would have gotten out," said Bruce Cha, a local dentist. "Many, many Korean families owe a great deal to these veterans and we want to show our appreciation.” 

The program will feature interviews of Korean War veterans, several Korean cultural performance groups including a traditional fan dance, Tae Kwon Do exhibition, and the New Haven Korean Church Choir. 

Often depicted as “The Forgotten War,” the efforts of American and United Nations troops helped South Korea become the economic powerhouse it is today. 

“You know, the war never officially ended," said Ed Shultz, chair of a local Korean War veterans group. "We don’t have as many members in our group as we used to. Sixty years is a long time, but it is good to know what we did was worthwhile.” 

Sunday’s event will also highlight some of the economic achievements of both South Korea and America since the 1953 ceasefire agreement. With the backdrop of North Korean’s continued provocations, the close relationship between America and South Korea has only grown stronger.

This event was the idea of Arthur Erickson of Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, who brought together the area Korean community, veterans groups, and others to honor area veterans of the Korean War. 

Sponsors include the Hamden Veterans Commission, the Greater New Haven Chapter 204 Korean War Veterans Association, Korean American Society of Connecticut, Connecticut Saturday Korean Church, New Haven Korean Church, and Beecher & Bennett Funeral Service.

The public is welcome to attend this tribute program and light refreshments after the event will be generously provided by the New Haven Korean Church.