Korean War veterans honoured

The Australian Government encourages all Australians to take a moment tomorrow to honour those who served in the Battle of Kapyong and the Korean War.

In April 1951, the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment was positioned in Kapyong Valley as part of a UN force defending Seoul against the advancing communist forces.

The communist forces assaulted the UN defensive positions and during the night of 23 April, wave after wave of troops attacked the Australian positions. By morning, elements of the Australian force had to withdraw, with some cut off up to four kilometres behind the forward most enemy troops.

While the Australians were able to resist the attacks throughout the following day, by the evening of 24 April they were forced to undertake a fighting withdrawal. On 25 April the communist attack focused on the positions held by Canadian forces, who were ably supported by New Zealand artillery batteries.

By the afternoon of 25 April, the communist attacks had ceased, the combined Commonwealth forces had halted the advance.

While the Battle of Kapyong was successful, it was costly for 3RAR, with the loss of 32 members of the unit, 59 wounded and three taken prisoner.

More than 17,000 Australians served throughout the Korean War, with 340 killed, more than 1,200 wounded and 30 Australians taken prisoner. There are 42 Australian service men still listed as missing in action in Korea.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Matt Keogh, said the service and sacrifices of Korean Veterans won’t be lost.

“While some may call it ‘the forgotten war’, we won’t lose sight of the Australians who served with distinction in the Korean War, especially those who paid the ultimate price. We will remember them,” Minister Keogh said.

“Each year on Kapyong Day we honour the Australians who served in this battle, and all those who served in the Korean War. Their service and the sacrifices of their families will continue to be honoured.”

To learn more about the Battle of Kapyong, visit the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Anzac Portal.

Authorised by The Hon Matt Keogh MP.

Editor’s note: For veterans and families this day may be an emotional time and lead to feelings of distress. You are encouraged to include the contact information for Open Arms Veterans and Families Counselling in your stories. Open Arms is available 24/7 on 1800 011 046 or visit OpenArms.gov.au.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608