A War On Hold

July 27 marks the 58th anniversary of the armistice that put the Korean War on hold. Hostilities have not ended between the North and South, but are limited to isolated incidents as an uneasy truce exits. It is truly a forgotten war.
July 01, 2011
July 27 marks the 58th anniversary of the armistice that put the Korean War on hold. Hostilities have not ended between the North and South, but are limited to isolated incidents as an uneasy truce exits. It is truly a forgotten war. 
In 1950 the United Nations Security Council had authorized military intervention to support South Korea, and 30,000 Canadians served under severe conditions. They gave the small, beleaguered nation the opportunity to be free. The price of this freedom was 516 who never came home, who never grew old.  Their effort and sacrifice epitomize the ideals and values we share as Canadians.

An Edmonton regiment, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, received an American presidential citation for their heroic accomplishments against unbelievable odds, protecting the capital city of Seoul against capture in the battle of Kap’yong in April 1951.

Patrick O’Connor of the Royal Canadian Regiment was killed one day after penning these poignant words:

  • There is blood on the hills of Korea
  • It’s the gift of freedom they love
  • May their names live in glory forever
  • And their souls in Heaven above
In July we celebrate Canada Day, this year marking the 144th birthday of our nation. As Canadians, we believe freedom and democracy to be among the most important of our common values. We are fortunate to live in a united country that also has rich cultural and economic resources.

More than two million men and women have served in uniform to protect our freedom and lifestyle. More than 115,000 of them paid the ultimate sacrifice with their lives. As we celebrate our country’s birthday let us remember them. And let us also remember the people of Korea and the war still on hold.