The Secretary of Defense extends an official invitation to participate in the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War Commemorative Community Program.
The purpose of the Korean War commemoration is to honor the Korean War veterans, their family members, especially families who lost loved ones; to recognize the contributions and sacrifices made on the home front; to provide Americans with a clear understanding and appreciation of the lessons and history of the Korean War; and to educate every generation of Americans on the historical impact of the Korean War in saving a nation from enslavement and preserving peace, freedom and prosperity.
Military and civilian communities can become a Commemorative Community (C2) when they agree to develop annual programs and host a minimum of three (3) events each year that honor veterans and their families, or support school programs in teaching the history of this era so we can learn and ensure a safer, more peaceful and democratic world. This is, in essence, a grass-roots community outreach and education program.
To become a Commemorative Community, groups or organizations file an application which outlines their commemorative plans, and provide Activity Reports following the event or activity. The Department of Defense 50th Anniversary Commemorative Committee will provide Commemorative Communities with educational and historical information to assist in designing and implementing their programs.
Some possible activities include: commemorating the key historical events of the war; publishing service, unit, ship or activity history brochures; dedicate or rededicate an armory, Reserve Center or other facility to honor a Korean War veteran; participate in local parades with color guard or marching unit in Korean War uniforms; develop Korean War themes for graduation ceremonies, festivals, balls, races, runs and organization days and organize volunteer groups -- military and civilian -- to visit veterans homes, hospitals and assist schools with Korean War commemorative education programs.
As a Korean War Commemorative Community, C2s, have several entitlements. They receive a certificate of designation from the Secretary of Defense; they receive, and are authorized to display, the Korean War Commemorative Flag; and are authorized to use the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War logo for approved purposes.
The process is simple -- to participate and receive official recognition, including permission to use the Korean War 50th Anniversary logo and flag, complete and submit an application to:
Department of Defense
50th Anniversary of the Korean War
Commemoration Committee
1213 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Suite 702
Arlington, VA 22202-4303
(703) 604-0831
To qualify as "Commemorative Community," you need to:
1. Organize a Commemorative Committee
2. Plan three (3) or more events per year from 2000 through 2003
3. Submit the completed application form.
4. Agree to keep us informed of your activities through brief reports
Upon approval of your application, your committee will receive:
• A certificate from the Secretary of Defense designating your group or organization as an official "Korean War Commemorative Community."
• An official 50th Anniversary of the Korean War commemorative flag.
• Authorization to use the 50th Anniversary logo on your letterhead, magazines, newsletters and other approved purposes.
• Information and educational materials pertaining to the Korean War, including maps, posters, fact sheets and a historical chronology.
• Quarterly issues of the Korean War DISPATCH, a newsletter and a source of official information on Korean War Commemorative events.
• Official leadership lapel pins for the members of your Commemorative Committee.
The process is simple, but nothing happens until you apply!
For additional information or the application form, call the Commemorative Committee at (703) 604-0831.