From War To Hope, A Korean American's Tribute To Our Veterans
In the summer of 1950, the Korean Peninsula was thrust into chaos when North Korean forces, backed by the Soviet Union and China, launched a surprise invasion across the 38th parallel. South Korea, newly formed and fragile, was on the brink of collapse. But the United States, under the banner of the United Nations, answered the call.
American troops, many barely out of high school crossed oceans to defend a people they had never met. They fought in brutal conditions, from the icy mountains of the Chosin Reservoir to the bombed out streets of Seoul. Over 36,000 Americans gave their lives in that conflict. Their sacrifice helped preserve the Republic of Korea and laid the foundation for the vibrant, democratic nation it is today.
I was born in Seoul, a city that rose from the ashes of war. My journey to the United States is a living testament to what those sacrifices made possible. The American Dream I now cherish was forged in part by their blood, grit, and sacrifice.
Across generations and continents, American veterans have stood in defense of liberty, and not just for our nation. From the beaches of Normandy to the jungles of Vietnam, from the deserts of the Middle East to the mountains of Korea, our veterans left behind comfort, safety, and family to fight tyranny, protect the innocent, and uphold the ideals of freedom and democracy.
But I owe a personal debt of gratitude to the Veterans of the Korean War.
Thank You.
You didn’t just fight a war, you saved a nation. You gave generations the gift of freedom, opportunity, and peace. Your courage echoes in every Korean-American story and I am grateful. I would not be here today if you hadn't been willing to make the sacrifice.
To all of our veterans, your service is not forgotten. Your legacy is alive in every life touched by freedom. May we never take for granted the peace you fought to preserve.
With deepest gratitude to all who served,
Carol Pefley
