The White House released a message on July 27 marking the 82nd anniversary of the American liberation of Guam and observing National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day. The statement honors the courage and devotion of American service members who fought in the Korean War, emphasizing their role in securing liberty for South Korea.
According to the message, war began on June 25, 1950, when North Korean forces invaded South Korea. The United States responded by leading a coalition of 22 nations to repel the invasion during a conflict that lasted for 38 months. The statement describes how American troops faced difficult conditions across harsh terrain and endured severe winters while resisting assaults from North Korean and Chinese forces.
The armistice signed on July 27, 1953, ended active combat and established the Demilitarized Zone along the front lines. The White House said this action halted the spread of communism in Korea but came at significant cost: more than 32,000 Americans were killed in action, over 90,000 wounded, thousands became prisoners of war, and many others returned with lasting injuries. In total, more than 135,000 Americans were killed or wounded during the conflict. For their actions in combat, 153 service members received the Medal of Honor; more than one hundred were awarded posthumously.
The message states that over seventy years after hostilities ended, “the United States of America and the Republic of Korea remain united in a steadfast alliance.” This alliance is described as essential for peace and stability throughout Asia. The White House also addressed ongoing threats from communist regimes globally and pledged continued support for freedom against such challenges.
Concluding its remarks with reference to an inscription at the Korean War Veterans Memorial—”Freedom is not Free,” the statement pays tribute to those who served: “Today we salute the noble warfighters whose valor and devotion brought lasting glory to our Nation and delivered the priceless gifts of liberty and sovereignty to millions of South Koreans.”