In recognition of the 65th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, a ceremony was held at Club Taree on Friday, July 27.

Taree RSL Sub-branch president Charles Fisher said the day recognises “those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in what was known as the ‘forgotten war’.”

Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie highlighted the contribution Australians made in the war.

“Australian sailors, soldiers, airmen and nurses made an important contribution to this international endeavour, with Australian service personnel earning widespread respect for their courage and endurance,” Dr Gillespie said.

Other guest speakers included Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead, MidCoast Council mayor David West, Korea War Veterans Association NSW’s Mick Kohlhoff, Reverend Dr Tae Yong Chi and Taree RSL Sub-branch chaplain Reverend Bill Green.

Representatives of the Sydney Cheil Church made the trip up for the service.

The church’s cromaharp group Humble Sound gave a stirring performance of two songs during the ceremony. 

The Korea War began on June 25, 1950 when North Korea invaded South Korea. 

All three of Australia’s armed services took part in the war.

Forster-Tuncurry RSL Sub-branch member Roly Kinnear served during the war with the Royal Australian Regiment First Battalion.

Mr Kinnear outlined the importance of remembering those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

“It’s about remembering those guys who were left behind and didn’t make it home,” Mr Kinnear said. 

“We remember the 43 who are still missing.”

Mr Kinnear served in the Australian army for about 18 years.

He added Australian youth must be aware of the trauma and sacrifices of war. 

“I’ve done a lot of work with schools in the area to distribute literature and books,” Mr Kinnear said.

Mr Kinnear laid a book instead of a wreath at the ceremony.