Benalla's Kevin Harper, like many young Australian men in the early 1950s, served his country in the Korean War.
Photo by
Simon Ruppert
They call the Korean War ‘‘the forgotten war’’.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
But for those who served there from 1950-1953 and their friends and family, it was as important as any conflict where Australian soldiers have been deployed to protect the freedoms and way of life most people take for granted today.
On Monday, July 27 Benalla RSL held a service to honour and remember those who fought in the Korean War.
Benalla RSL president Paul Hartland said there were two local men at the service who served, Kevin Harper and Henry Logan.
Community members joined veterans at the Benalla Cenotaph on Monday, July 27 to honour those who served in the Korean War
Photo by
Simon Ruppert
Mr Logan came across with members of Wangaratta RSL.
“As it was the forgotten war, we thought let’s remember,” Mr Hartland said.
“We’ve got two veterans here today. Henry was with the Scottish Regiment. And we’ve got Kevin from Benalla.”
Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn was at the service.
“I think the RSL do a great job in putting these on so that we can honour the people who have served for us and our country, for our rights and our liberties and keeping us independent,” Cr Hearn said.
“Many young men left home and witnessed horrible things.
“And those that came back, they didn't necessarily come back unscathed.
“So we get to honour them every time that the RSL puts on something like this.
“It's a privilege to be able to be one of those here to honour them today.
“Especially the two wonderful veterans we have in attendance.”
This is the second year that Benalla RSL has held a service for those who served in Korea.
And Mr Hartland plans to keep the tradition going.
“I’d like to thank everyone who came out today,” he said.
11°C