We spend a great deal of time on the remembrance of events from World War II. Even World War I is stuck in our memory with the significance of Armistice Day. And as I look through the annals of history, I see that my father’s war was called “The Forgotten War,” for apparently good reason.

It is true that few words are ever said about the war in Korea. However, many of our advancements in technology, theory, and military practices were all changed in the slip of memory that became the Korean War.

It was the very first time that our military strength was halted by popular opinion thousands of miles away on the streets of America. This war saw the removal of a famed and gloried General when Douglas MacArthur was asked to resign his command. During this conflict we saw the draft of many United states men to fight on faraway battlefields.

Stories circulated about the agony of our retreat from the snowy Chosin Reservoir, and the ensuing catapult that pushed the invading enemy back across the 38th parallel. Many firsts were realized during this time of military involvement. It was the first time both the communist air force as well as our own engaged in dog fighting with jets in the skies over the slender peninsula. It was the true first full use of the MASH field hospitals and the use of helicopter medivac to bring wounded to those locations.

Weapons were improved from the models used in World War II and military clothing was also improved to protect the wearer from the elements that became so unbearable in this frozen land.

Radio communications and strategic deployment of other resources was also new for this chilling war.

One of the things that was observed during this war was that the over abundant Chinese Army was strong in numbers but lacked modern tools and weapons. Their strategy was to overwhelm the opposing forces with sheer numbers versus quality tactics or proper equipment.

This style of fighting, that dates to the days of Alexander, was found to be one resulting in high casualty and death totals when these farmer type soldiers met the well-equipped Americans. They often engaged in battle using shovels, rakes and hoes. Their combat kit was crude, but they endured and pressed the United States forces to a breaking point several times as they isolated the Americans in mountainous terrain that limited the use of the Americans mechanization.

Marines and Army forces found themselves surrounded in many areas without resupply.

This style of warfare led to many battles where both sides ran out of ammunition, and combat became hand to hand. After a couple of years of back-and-forth movement of the front lines, a stalemate was reached, and talks began between the North and South Korean governments.

This brings us to one of the most forgotten aspects of this conflict. This is by far the longest sustained war in American history. It began in 1950. It continues to this very day with small skirmishes every now and then along the DMZ, but in the public’s eye the war ended in 1953. These countries remain divided and at war, though under a cease fire. This shows a value of great importance to this region of the globe, and though we are not occupying the territory, we still maintain a strong and fortified military presence in that area as an ally. The Pacific Command has entrusted control of our military forces there to the Second Infantry Division of the U.S. Army.

They are supported by the other branches of the military by the way of the Air Force and Navy. These men and women guard one of the most fluid and dangerous demilitarized zones on the planet.

As this war continues without any belief that either side will offer a surrender, our “Forgotten War” will remain under a truce where both sides will continue to test the strength and resolve of the other.

To honor all who have served in the Korean Conflict or have since the cease fire guarded democracy and basic human rights for the people of South Korea, let your voice be heard with respect for their commitment. I believe not one American serviceman or woman should ever be forgotten.

Kirk L. Miller is past commander Chautauqua County American Legion, Eighth District Department of New York.