Dignitaries honor 30th anniversary of Korean Vietnam Memorial at state capitol

HONOLULU (KHON2) — A memorial honoring the service members in both the Korean and Vietnam wars was built on the grounds of the Hawaii State Capitol 30-years ago. Wednesday, dignitaries from all countries came to pay tribute to them.

Their names mark each stone at this memorial in their honor.

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Gone, but not forgotten.

“They fought to defend our country not only for us, but for all future generations of Americans,” said Lt. Gen. James B. Jarrard, of the U.S. Army Pacific.

This memorial was built exactly 30-years ago on the grounds at the Hawaii State Capitol honoring the hundreds of fallen servicemen in both the Korean and Vietnam wars.

Today was a day to remember the importance of that anniversary.

“I hope this memorial always stands a symbol of our alliance,” said Maj. Gen. Lee Seo Young, Consulate General of the Republic of Korea.

“Thank goodness our society has worked over the last several decades to ensure that now we appropriately recognize our veterans sacrifice,” said Vice Adm. Blake L. Converse, of the U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet. “And the Hawaii, Korean and Vietnam War Memorial, which has stood on these grounds for 30-years, does just that.”

1.8 million U.S. service members fought in the Korean war. 7,500 were soldiers from Hawaii. 456 of them were killed in action.

“Their bravery and determination ensured the protection of South Korea and preserved the liberty of its people,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi.

Their contributions are still being felt today.

“Now Korea is the 10th largest economic power of the world,” said Lee. Korean Veterans. Your dedication and sacrifice made that possible.”

In Korea, Hawaii soldiers were honored with two presidential citations, and 14 soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor.

In Vietnam, eight units earned presidential citations. 11 Units also were recognized.

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“The memorials that were dedicated 30-years ago filled the need for a place in Hawaii to honor the contributions and sacrifice of Hawaii’s own from the Korean and Vietnam wars,” said Lt. Gen. Jarrard.