Veterans Issues Minister Peter Tinley has urged Western Australians to pause and reflect on the service given by Australia’s armed forces on the 64th anniversary of the Korean War armistice. “Western Australians served with distinction in the Korean War and it is important we recognise their contributions today, on the 64th anniversary of the armistice. The Korean War was a significant event in Australia’s military history, with our sailors, soldiers, airmen and nurses winning international respect for their courage, endurance and combat skills.” Minister Tinley commented.
Five years after the end of World War II, Australia became involved in the Korean War. Personnel from the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the Australian Regular Army were deployed soon after the Korean War began and defended South Korea for the next three years. From June 29, 1950 to July 27, 1953, more than 17,000 Australian sailors, soldiers, airmen and nurses served in the Korean War, with 339 killed, 1,216 wounded and 29 listed as prisoners of war (including three Western Australians). Forty-three Australian servicemen are still listed as ‘Missing in Action’.

“In addition to fighting a determined enemy, our troops endured the hardships of extreme weather, fighting in freezing winter conditions and scorching summer heat. They put their lives at risk to protect people in need and to fight for a better future.” Minister Tinley commented “It is important we reflect on the service of these brave men and women whose lives were forever changed by what is often termed the ‘forgotten war’.”
The armistice was signed at 10am on July 27, 1953. Sporadic fighting continued throughout the day, but as evening came the guns fell silent. The armistice came into effect at 10pm, ending three years, one month and two days of war in Korea. Australian personnel remained in Korea with a peacekeeping force until 1957. Minister Tinley explained that according to Perth Legacy, 340 Australians appear on the Korean War’s Roll of Honour. There were 26 Army, seven RAAF and one RAN Western Australian servicemen killed in action.