If you saw somebody walking around with a poppy on their lapel today (Friday), and wondered why, it was the anniversary of the end of the Korean War in 1953.
To commemorate this important moment in history, veterans, dignitaries and family gathered in Burnaby at the Ambassador of Peace Korean War Memorial in Central Park.
The event included a speech by B.C.’s Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin, who told the crowd that for too long the war was referred to as a “police action” by many.
“This once-forgotten war must never be forgotten,” Austin said.
The event was organized through the Korean War Commemorative Alliance, with touching tributes in both English and Korean, plus the laying of wreaths.
A colourful group of children from St. Agnes Kim Korean School led the crowd in the singing of national anthems.
After it was over, a lunch was hosted by Burnaby firefighters.
More than 26,000 Canadians took part in the war on the side of the United Nations, with more than 500 being killed.
