Australian Federation Guard supports Korean War commemorations

25 October 2011

A contingent from Australia’s Federation Guard (AFG) is in Korea to support activities commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Korean War battles of Kapyong and Maryang San.

During the six-day mission, AFG will provide a catafalque party for memorial ceremonies at Australian, Commonwealth and United Nations memorials.

The mission party includes eight representatives of Australia’s Korean War veteran community, accompanied by Veterans’ Affairs Minister, Warren Snowdon.
The commemorations honour the 17,000 Australians who served in Korea, and more than 340 who lost their lives in the war.

The UN-led international force’s first task was to help the South Korea drive back the North Korean forces and later contended with the human wave attacks by the Communist Chinese reinforcements.

“My father served within the Australian Army and during his time was deployed to Korea” said Guardsman LAC Ben Lewis, “I think it’s not only exciting but an honor to be a part of this as he served in a lot of deployments including Vietnam.

“It’s great being part of the ceremonies, traditions and the atmosphere of the Korean commemorations – there are seven ceremonial activities in six days.”

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