The United Nations Command supported Turkey in commemorating its martyrs at the UNMC in Busan on March 18, 2025. The event honored Turkish soldiers who participated in the Korean War, with significant attendance from the Turkish Embassy and UNC representatives. The ceremony emphasized the importance of remembrance and the enduring partnership in ensuring peace on the Korean Peninsula.
At the United Nations Memorial Cemetery (UNMC) in Busan, Republic of Korea, the graves of Korean War Veterans serve as a solemn reminder of their sacrifices in the pursuit of freedom and peace on the Korean Peninsula. The meticulously maintained grounds feature grave markers and polished stone paths, which draw numerous visitors keen to pay their respects. The landscape is adorned with memorial statues, flags from participating nations, and tranquil water features, enhancing its serene beauty.
On March 18, 2025, Turkey marked the “Gallipoli Victory and Martyrs’ Remembrance Day,” a day dedicated to honoring their soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice, including those who fought valiantly in the Korean War. The event serves as a tribute to the Turkish troops who united under a common cause for peace in Korea, showcasing deep respect for their dedication.
The ceremony was attended by the Turkish Ambassador to Korea, Salih Murat Tamer, along with a delegation from the Turkish Embassy. He emphasized the importance of this occasion, stating that “21,000 Turkish troops participated in the Korean War. Of those, nearly 1,000 were martyred on Korean soil.” Furthermore, he noted that 462 of the fallen soldiers are interred at the UNMC, making it a fitting location to honor these heroes alongside others who fought under the UN Command.
Representatives from the United Nations Command (UNC) included Lieutenant-Colonel Derek Adams from the Canadian Armed Forces and Major Ekrem Karadeniz from the Royal Netherlands Army. Lieutenant-Colonel Adams remarked on the significance of commemorating historical contributions, stating, “It is important for UNC to commemorate the historical contributions of our allies and partners while remaining focused on strengthening collective security on the Korean Peninsula.”
Major Karadeniz expressed a personal connection to the ceremony, mentioning his Turkish grandfather’s service in the Korean War. He reflected on the bonds of friendship formed during that time, noting, “Out of the four friends, only three returned home,” and highlighted the continuous remembrance of their sacrifices.
The Turkish Ambassador expressed profound gratitude for the support received from UNC, emphasizing, “It’s a wonderful feeling. We are very grateful that UNC were supporting us for this,” underscoring the enduring partnership and hope for future cooperation between Turkey and UNC.
The ceremony at the UNMC exemplified the bond shared between Turkish soldiers and the United Nations Command, with a collective commitment to honoring the sacrifices made during the Korean War. Key figures, including ambassadors and military representatives, highlighted the importance of remembrance as a vital part of strengthening international ties and ensuring peace on the Korean Peninsula. This event not only pays tribute to the fallen but also reinforces the legacy of shared values in pursuit of freedom and security.
Original Source: www.dvidshub.net
