UNMCK - UNITED NATIONS MEMORIAL CEMETERY IN KOREA

U.S. Congress Recognizes Korean War Veterans

The U.S. Congress has passed a bill granting a national charter to the Korean War Veterans Association, paving the way for the U.S. to memorialize the Korean War and expand support for the American veterans to mark the 58th anniversary of the conflict. According to a source in Washington, President George W. Bush will soon sign the bill adopted jointly by the Senate and House of Representatives.

Congress on June 17 passed the joint bill officially granting a national charter to the KWVA, which was established in 1985, in recognition of the sacrifices made by members.

Democratic House Leader Steny Hoyer said, "Korean War veterans deserve the same official recognition for their struggles and sacrifices on behalf of freedom that other veterans enjoy."

The KWVA can now secure accreditation from the U.S. Defense Department and the Department of Veterans Affairs to expand support for memorial projects for the Korean War dead and help veterans with their disability claims. The KWVA can also present itself at U.S. congressional hearings to make statements.