"We Will Remember Their Courage and Dedication" ... Gyeongsangnam-do Solemnly Holds the 71st Memorial Day Ceremony

"We will remember and carry on the sacrifices made for our nation."

On June 6, Gyeongsangnam-do held the 71st National Memorial Day ceremony at the Changwon Memorial Tower, honoring the spirit of the patriotic martyrs and national heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country.

Gyeongsangnam-do Governor Park Wansu delivers a commemorative speech at the 71st Memorial Day Ceremony.
[Photo by Gyeongsangnam-do]

The province began the ceremony at 10 a.m., immediately following the nationwide memorial sirens, and observed a one-minute silent tribute.

The event continued with the national pledge, floral tributes and incense offering, a memorial address, recitation of a commemorative poem and a letter of gratitude, and the singing of the Memorial Day song, all in appreciation and respect for the patriotic martyrs and national heroes.

Kim Hyokyung, president of the Changwon Recitation Literature Society and daughter-in-law of the late Private Lee Jongtae, who was killed in action during the Korean War, recited the commemorative poem "Once Again in June."

The Changwon Philharmonic Orchestra performed Rachmaninoff's "Vocalise," and Kim Taeyu, a second-year member of the Changwon High School Junior ROTC, read a letter of gratitude on behalf of the corps.

Governor Park Wansu of Gyeongnam Province is offering incense for the patriotic martyrs and fallen heroes at the 71st Memorial Day Ceremony.
[Photo by Gyeongnam Province]

Over 1,000 people attended the ceremony, including Governor Park Wansoo, Choi Hakbeom, Chairman of the Gyeongnam Provincial Council, National Assemblyman Kim Jongyang (Changwon Uichang District), National Assemblyman Heo Seongmu (Changwon Seongsan District), officials from veterans' organizations, representatives of bereaved families, independence and military veterans, and 30 members of the Changwon High School ROTC.

Governor Park said, "The peaceful daily life and prosperity we enjoy today are only possible because of the patriotic heroes who devoted themselves to our country. I hope today, as we remember their courage and dedication, becomes a meaningful time for all of us to commit to a better tomorrow."

He also stated, "Honoring those who served the nation and caring for their lives is a basic responsibility of both the state and local governments. We will do our utmost to promote a culture of respect and gratitude for veterans in our everyday lives."

In the memorial tower guestbook, he wrote, "I hope the Republic of Korea will continue to prosper by inheriting the spirit of our patriotic heroes. I, too, will strive for the development of Gyeongnam."

In observance of National Patriots and Veterans Month in June, Gyeongsangnam-do plans to continue expressing gratitude and respect for national merit recipients and their families through various veteran-related events, including visits to hospitalized veterans, appreciation events for Korean War veterans, and joint wedding ceremonies for disabled veterans and their spouses.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.