City of Airdrie staff, members of council, and dignitaries from South Korea unveiled the "Battle of Gapyeong Victory Monument" at the cenotaph outside the Town and Country Centre on Saturday, July 8.
At an unveiling attended by approximately 300 people, the monument was presented to Airdrie by the City of Gapyeong as a gesture of gratitude for the sacrifices made by Canadians in the Battle of Gapyeong during the Korean War.
“This monument serves as a lasting testament to the bravery and resilience of our soldiers on the battlefield,” said Mayor Peter Brown in a City press release. “It is also a powerful reminder of the enduring friendship between Canada and Korea. We are honoured to have this monument in our city, where it will inspire generations to come and foster a deeper understanding of our shared history.
The City's press release states the monument commemorates the Battle of Gapyeong, where the 2nd Battalion of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (2 PPCLI) was widely recognized for helping prevent what would have been a costly defeat in the Korean War.
“The Battle of Gapyeong held immense significance during the Korean War,” said Keith Shaw, 1st vice-president of the Royal Canadian Legion Airdrie Branch No. 288. “The valiant soldiers of the 2nd Battalion of Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry displayed unwavering determination in the face of formidable challenges.
According to Shaw, the gift from the City of Gapyeong was quarried from Hill 677, the site of the battle, and recognizes those who served and paid the ultimate price in a war often referred to as the ‘Forgotten War.’
In addition to commemorating the Battle of Gapyeong, the monument celebrates the 60-year diplomatic relationship between Canada and Korea and the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice Agreement.”
“I extend my sincere gratitude to the City of Gapyeong for this cherished gift and I invite everyone to visit the monument to pay their respects and reflect upon the sacrifices of our veterans.”
The City added the monument weighs approximately 11.5 tons, stands 2.8 metres tall, and is 2.2 metres wide. It is the fifth installed in Canada, with sister monuments located in Langley, Winnipeg, Brampton and Niagara Falls.
“It is a proud moment to witness the unveiling of the Korean War Battle of Gapyeong Victory Monument in Airdrie that stands as an emblem of unwavering solidarity and friendship between Canada and Korea. We hope this serves as a profound expression of gratitude and reverence for the unwavering dedication and sacrifices of Canadian soldiers who valiantly fought in the Korean War,” stated Andy Choi, Chairman of the KWCC, in the City's release.
—With files from the City of Airdrie
