Remembering the Forgotten War

To the editor:

It’s for something I did when I was 20 years old and I am thanked for it nearly every day. That was over 68 years ago and I hear it still today on the streets, in stores, about everywhere I go. I’m not sure how to answer. I generally just say, thank you. It’s always good to hear, “Thank you for your service.”

It’s because I often wear my military cap, usually my Korean War or my Air Force veteran’s hat that people spot and take the time to say it. So many tell me about their father or grandfather and what they were in. Some are veterans themselves and we often exchange our experiences. I am sometimes overwhelmed when a teenager comes up to me and says it. I know they have been taught well by their parents or maybe a teacher. If they take the time to talk, I hand them a card that I printed. It gives them a harsh reality of why I wear the cap.

It is often referred to as “The Forgotten War.” I wear my cap to make sure the Korean War is not forgotten. Whether they were around during the war or too young I want to impress upon them what so many gave, in order for Americans to have their freedom. The card tells of the 36,574 Americans who gave their lives; the 103,284 Americans who returned home suffering from wounds; the 92 killed since the cease fire was agreed upon; and the 7,800 still missing in action. That’s a very expensive freedom and I want people to remember it.

I only did my part. I never faced the enemy, though they were only a few miles away. I never dropped a bomb, though I supported those who did. The thing I get thanked for is “serving” and for that I am proud.

Don Hill

Seymour