Korean memorial nears completion

TO REMEMBER: This large granite monument memorializing veterans of the Korean War will be erected at Northern California Veterans Cemetery in Igo.

Plans are underway for a ceremony to dedicate the newest monument erected at the Northern California Veterans Cemetery in Igo - this time honoring those who participated in the Korean Conflict from June 25, 1950, through July 27, 1953.

Often called "The Forgotten War" because the conflict ended in stalemate that continues today, the monument - a five-foot tall, 30-inches wide and six-inch thick slab of solid black granite - is engraved in gold letters with that statement, along with the word "Remembered" added below.

Also engraved on the polished stone face in white are representations of flags for the United States of America as well as the Republic of South Korea. A map of the Korean peninsula shows major cities and battle grounds as well as the demilitarized zone that now separates communist North Korea from democratic South Korea.

"Freedom isn't Free" marks the very base of the granite slab, reminding all of those who visit it of the 36,516 U.S. dead and 92,134 wounded, 8,176 missing in action and 7,245 taken as prisoners of war, as well as the 2.5 million civilians killed or wounded on both sides of the conflict.

Concrete footings for the monument were poured last week by Shasta Redi-Mix Co. of Redding, assisted by crew members from AKS Construction, Inc., of Anderson. Both companies' employees volunteered their time and donated materials for the monument's foundation and walkway, said Bill McKinney, Commander of the Korean Veterans Association, Nor Cal Chapter 1, that is associated with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9650 in Anderson.

The monument slab was designed and created by the Oroville Monument Co. and will be delivered to the cemetery Thursday, McKinney said.

Total cost for the monument stone, engraving, foundation, walkway and landscaping was estimated at slightly more than $6,000 McKinney said.

Donations are being accepted to pay for the memorial. Those interested in donating should contact McKinney at 365-3656 or via email at bnjmckin@charter.net