On June 23rd, 2023, veterans and residents of Columbia, SC came together at the Columbia VA Health Care System (CVAHCS) to honor the heroes of the Korean War. The Korean community in Columbia, with the support of the CVAHCS, has been organizing an annual wreath-laying ceremony to remember those who lost their lives in the war. During the Korean War (1950-1953), nearly 500 South Carolinians made ultimate sacrifice and were unable to return home. The Columbia VA Health Care System proudly displays the Korean War Monument, which was generously donated by Mr. and Mrs. Roy C. W. Lim. This monument stands as a testament to the bravery and selflessness of the countless young soldiers who fought in the Korean War. Mr. Lim, a local businessman originally from Korea and a Korean War survivor, chose Columbia as his home in America, and this monument serves as his heartfelt “Thank You!” to the people of South Carolina. The monument was meticulously designed and crafted from a boulder sourced from the NakTong River, a significant battleground that holds numerous historical associations. Through this monument, it is my sincere prayer that the spirits of those soldiers who never made it home find solace and comfort. While the Korean War is often referred to as the “Forgotten War,” those who survived it will never forget. Remembering alone is not enough; it is important to demonstrate gratitude through meaningful actions, as Mr. Lim did by donating this monument, or by the simple yet profound act of laying a single flower in remembrance.I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the dedicated volunteers who have generously contributed their time and talents to ensure the success of this ceremony. Your efforts have made a significant impact and are deeply appreciated. In closing, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all those who took the time to attend the ceremony. Your presence and support made the ceremony a meaningful and memorable occasion. Thank you for honoring the heroes of the Korean War and showing your unwavering respect and gratitude. (YNH, A Korean War survivor)
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Richland County Sheriff Dept. Honor Guard( Commander Sgt. Robinson)  |
📷W. L. Anthony
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| 📷W.L. Anthony |
📷 W.L. Anthony
📷 W.L. Anthony
Mistress of ceremony Dr. Galen Grant
Capt. Army Retired, Served in Korea 1985-1986
The heroes
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Map of Flying mission during the Korean War Source: Culver family |
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| Mr. John F. Merkel Acting Director of the Columbia VA Health Care System |
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| Mr. Jim Manning Former Richland County Councilman |
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| Ret. Col. (USMC) ML Culver Tribute to her father Ret. Col. USAF Frank B. Culver III |
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| A Korean War survivor sharing personal experience during the war |
📷 W.L. Anthony
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| Taps by Veteran Army, Jill Averyhart |
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| Fr. L to R Col. ML. Culver, Mr. Roy C.W. Lim, Mr. John Merkel, Mr. Jung Ho Yi |
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| L to R Mr. Jung Ho Yi, Col. ML Culver, Mr. Roy C.W. Lim, Mr. William Smith |
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| Columbia area ladies golf group |
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| Sharing Korean Food at the Senior College of Columbia Prepared by Mrs. Yi & the volunteers |
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| This is how we end the event! |
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