Ronald Reagan

“ In June 1950, when the Communist North Korean army invaded the Republic of Korea in a brazen attempt to extinguish the light of freedom there, American forces joined with those of many other nations to repel this unprovoked assault. Weary of war ourselves and ready to lead an era of peaceful recovery, we nonetheless came to Korea's defense because instinct and experience have taught us that freedom can have no borders, that an attack on free men anywhere is an attack on free men everywhere. ”

“ Standing shoulder to shoulder with the valiant South Korean armies and troops of 16 other countries operating under United Nations command, nearly six million of our service men and women-more than served in World War I-participated in the drive to preserve Korea's territorial integrity and political independence. ”

“ I call upon the people of the United States to observe such week with appropriate ceremonies and activities and call upon and authorize all departments and agencies of the United States and interested organizations, groups, and individuals to fly United States flags at half-staff on July 27, 1988, as a symbol of our gratitude to those who died as a result of their service in Korea and of our steadfast commitment to preserving the values for which they fought. ”