Remembering the Korean War

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the Korean War.

A national ceremony was held at the Australian National Korean War Memorial in Canberra on 23 October 2010.  This was in addition to seven state-based ceremonies that were held during June and July 2010.

Out in the Cold coverNew edition of Out in the Cold – Australia's involvement in the Korean War 1950–53

To recognise the importance of the anniversary, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs has released a new edition of Out in the Cold, a book detailing the service and sacrifice of Australians during the Korean War.  This is available from the Australian War Memorial Shop and website and The Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne.

Korean War website

The Department will also establish a website dedicated specifically to the Korean War. The website concept was developed in consultation with Korean War veterans, in order to ensure that Australia’s role in the Korean War takes its rightful place in our proud military history. The site is due for launch in May 2011.

60th Anniversary logoLetter of thanks to Australian veterans

As part of the 60th Anniversary commemorations President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Myung-Bak, sent a letter to all surviving Australian Korean War veterans, expressing the gratitude of the Korean people for their service.

In a spirit of cooperation, and to ensure the privacy of the recipients, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs facilitated the mailing of the President’s personal letter to almost 5000 surviving Korean War veterans. Any eligible veterans who have not yet received a letter should download, print and complete an application form and mail it to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs at the address on the form.