PA commemorates 63rd anniversary of Battle of Yultong

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 23): PA commemorates 63rd anniversary of Battle of Yultong

The Philippine Army (PA) commemorated on Wednesday the 63rd anniversary of the Battle of Yultong during the 1950-1953 Korean War.

This was highlighted by a wreath-laying and commemorative program at the Korean War Memorial Pylon at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

The activity was spearheaded by guest-of-honor Lee Hyuk, ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines.

The event commemorated the bravery and gallantry demonstrated by Filipino troopers who fought and died in the Korean War.

Senior military officers and personnel led by Army vice commander Major Gen. Romulo M. Cabantac Jr., Filipino war veterans and their dependents and other government officials were also present during the celebration.

In September 1950, the 10th Battalion Combat Team was sent to Korea to compose the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea or PEFTOK.

The Filipino troops were deployed to South Korea in fulfillment of the Philippines' pledge of assistance to the United Nations effort to stem North Korea’s invasion of South Korea on June 25, 1950.

During this year’s celebration, the Philippine Army as well as the people of the Republic of Korea remember the heroism of the PEFTOK soldiers and their invaluable service not just to the country, but to the attainment of world peace as well.

“Some 7,000 Filipino soldiers fought side by side with other UN Forces in the Battle of Yuldong against the forces of North Korea and China for the people of South Korea. We will never forget that," Ambassador Lee said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=637209