Today, Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA) issued the following remarks in support of H.J.Res.86, Recognizing the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War and reaffirming the United States-Korea alliance:
"On June 25, 1950, the Korean War started and was halted three years later by an armistice that is still in place today. It involved 22 nations fighting together in defense of the Republic of Korea.
"More than 5.7 million Americans served during the conflict. Some 33,600 were killed in action, including about 8,200 listed as missing and presumed dead. Another 21,400 died of non-battle causes and more than 103,000 Americans were wounded during the three years of war. Some have called this the Forgotten War, but we are here today remembering.
"I should point out that this resolution was introduced by Mr. Rangel, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Conyers, and Mr. Coble – men who were there 60 years ago. We honor their service here today, as well.
"Nearly 140,000 South Koreans were killed on the battle field, many of whom fought side-by-side with American forces for the cause of preserving freedom. The heroic deeds of these servicemen laid the foundation for an alliance between the U.S. and South Korea that has lasted over 60 years, bringing stability to Northeast Asia.
"As this resolution rightly notes, the 'Republic of Korea is among the closest allies of the United States.' In no small part this is because of the sacrifices made by the brave Korean and American soldiers that fought valiantly together.
"We’ve worked hard over the years to keep this relationship on solid footing. I’ve chaired several exchange meetings with our counterparts in the National Assembly. A few years ago [2008], legislation I authored was signed into law to treat South Korea just the same as NATO and other top allies when it comes to defense sales.
"Unfortunately, we have been reminded of the importance of this relationship by the sinking of the Cheonan and by the loss of the 46 South Korean sailors who were killed by a North Korean torpedo attack. Our sympathies and condolences are with their families and the South Korean people. The House passed a resolution to this effect the other week.
"Last month, South Korea unveiled the results of a methodical international investigation into the cause of the sinking of a South Korean naval vessel. The evidence – overwhelming – showed what many were all but certain occurred on March 26th – the ship was sunk by a North Korean torpedo attack, in clear violation of the Korean War Armistice.
"This is the same regime that caused so much death and suffering in the early 1950’s – the regime brave American servicemen defended against back then, and continue to defend against today.
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