Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking Korean War Veterans Day:

“The armistice bringing a halt to hostilities on the Korean peninsula was signed on this date 71 years ago. Today, we remember the 26,791 Canadian military personnel in the Canadian Army, the Royal Canadian Navy and the Royal Canadian Air Force who served in the region during the conflict. About 7,000 service personnel served as peacekeepers after the armistice.

“On June 25, 1950, armed forces from communist North Korea invaded the Republic of Korea in an act of aggression. Canadian forces joined other nations fighting under the flag of the United Nations to defend the sovereignty and people of the Republic of Korea.

“Canadians showed great bravery in the conflict, including at the Battle of Hill 355 and the Battle of Kapyong. In more than three years of conflict, 516 Canadians lost their lives, while another 1,200 were wounded. Many others returned home scarred physically and mentally by the experience. We owe all the veterans of this conflict our gratitude for their courage and sacrifice in helping to build a more peaceful and democratic world.

“Those who served helped forge enduring bonds of friendship between Canada and South Korea that continue to this day. As the roll call of survivors shortens with each passing year, it falls to all of us to remember the sacrifices made by those who served, as well as their families.”