El Paso to Host 72nd Korean War Armistice Commemoration and Veterans Memorial Announcement

photo by TexasN / El Paso Museum of History 

[EL PASO= texasN]  The Houston Chapter of the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council (PUAC) and the El Paso Korean Association will co-host a ceremony commemorating the 72nd anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, along with an official announcement for the upcoming unveiling of a new Korean War Veterans Monument. The event will take place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the El Paso Museum of History.

The ceremony aims to honor the valor and sacrifice of Korean War veterans while raising awareness of the monument’s historical significance and its role in preserving their legacy for future generations. Community members are invited to participate and reflect on the continuing importance of the U.S.-Korea alliance.

Over the past year, the El Paso Korean Association, KWVA El Paso Chapter 249, and PUAC Houston Chapter have worked in partnership to establish a new Korean War Veterans Monument at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. The monument is currently in its final phase of construction and is expected to be unveiled in late August or September.

The memorial will bear the names of 94 local service members from El Paso who served in the Korean War, including 93 killed in action and one missing in action. It will also feature the flags of South Korea and the United States, insignias of all six U.S. military branches, and the names of supporting organizations, including PUAC Houston and the El Paso Korean Association.

Event Coincides with Closing of Year-Long Korean War Exhibit

The commemoration also marks the closing of a year-long Korean War exhibit hosted by the El Paso Museum of History, which opened on July 26, 2024. The exhibit, made possible with support from PUAC Houston, the El Paso Korean Association, and the KWVA, has showcased rare wartime artifacts and historical materials, attracting strong public interest. Last year’s opening ceremony drew around 400 attendees, including the El Paso mayor, city officials, veterans, and residents.

Organizers emphasize that the event will not only honor the past sacrifices of Korean War veterans but also highlight South Korea’s development as a testament to their legacy. They hope to strengthen ties with U.S. military veterans and position the memorial project as a cornerstone in commemorating the Korean War and promoting U.S.-Korea friendship in the region.

Catherine Wahrmund  amiangs0210@gmail.com