City of Airdrie commemorates the arrival of the Korean War Battle of Gapyeong Victory Monument

Saturday, July 8, 2023/FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Airdrie, AB – Today, the City of Airdrie welcomed the Korean War Battle of Gapyeong Victory Monument during an unveiling ceremony. 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. The monument is located near the Cenotaph at the Town and Country Centre.

"This monument serves as a lasting testament to the bravery and resilience of our soldiers on the battlefield. 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,” said Mayor Peter Brown. “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,” he added.

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 monument is also a celebration of the 60-year diplomatic relationship between Canada and Korea and the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice Agreement.

"The Battle of Gapyeong held immense significance during the Korean War. The valiant soldiers of the 2nd Battalion of Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry displayed unwavering determination in the face of formidable challenges. This gift from the City of Gapyeong was quarried from Hill 677, the site of the battle, and provides appropriate recognition for those who served and paid the ultimate price in a war often referred to as the ‘Forgotten War’,” said Keith Shaw, 1st Vice President of the Royal Canadian Legion Airdrie Branch #288.

Korean War Commemorative Committee (KWCC) and the Calgary Korean Association (CKA) played a pivotal role in the facilitation of this donation. The unveiling ceremony for the monument was attended by dignitaries from Korea, as well as close to 300 other guests, delegates and politicians.
“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.

The Korean War Gapyeong Battle Victory Monument in Airdrie weighs approximately 11.5 tons, stands 2.8 metres tall and 2.2 metres wide. This is the fifth installed in Canada, with sister monuments located in Langley, Winnipeg, Brampton and Niagara Falls. The public is encouraged to visit the monument located at the Cenotaph near the Town and Country Centre at 275 Jensen Drive NE, Airdrie.

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Media Contact:
Kim Harris
Community Developer, City of Airdrie
kim.harris@airdrie.ca
403.948.8800 ext. 8772