June 5, 2018 – Washington Co., WI – Five Korean War Veterans from Washington County traveled on Sunday, June 3 to Plover, WI for the annual ceremony at the Wisconsin Korean War Memorial.
Local veterans in attendance included Norbie Carter, Wally Kohler, Nick Habesetzer, Carl Becker, and Merlin Stockhausen.
Guest speakers included Representative of the Korean Government—Consul Byung-kyoo Ha and Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Daniel Zimmerman.
Consul Byung-kyoo expressed his government’s appreciation and gratitude for our veterans, especially the 801 Wisconsin soldiers killed in action, including Washington County’s Corporal Richard Bell.
The Consul reminded those in attendance that there has never been a treaty or “end of war” declaration ever made.
Byung-Kyoo reported that with the U.S.A. as their partner they are the 11th largest economy in the world.
Secretary Zimmerman emphasized that as descendants of these brave men and women we should always honor and never forget the sacrifices made during this 38 month long war, normally referred to as a conflict.
Zimmerman said the U.S. is still sending troops to Korea which is still officially at war with a ceasefire signed statement.
Both the Consul and Secretary expressed hopes that we, the U.S.A. and Korea can come to an agreement with North Korea so the war can come to an official end and all Koreans will be free.
In 1990 the Village of Plover offered a 2.5 acre island in Lake Pacawac to be used for the Wisconsin Korean War Memorial.
In 1993 a sand berm connected the north shoreline to the island memorial site and the first ceremony was held later that year. With help of the fund raising and funding from the State of Wisconsin a full-sized bronze statuary, flag poles and 75,000 pound granite wall had been erected.
Each year, an annual “Homecoming” program has been held at the memorial complex..
According to the Memorial’s website, “A memorial should be forever. Most Korean War Veterans are now in their eighties. Who will maintain our magnificent memorial after we are gone? Answer? The Village of Plover has agreed to do so, …”
Pictured with the Korean Consul from their Chicago Office is from left to right—Merlin Stockhausen, Carl Becker, Norb Carter, Consulate Byung-koo Ha, Nick Habesetzer and Wally Kohler.