By Peter Seiersen PPCLI

I returned to Korea to share in the November 11th Service of Remembrance at the Canadian UN Cemetery in Busan, Korea.

I arrived in Seoul, Korea on Friday 9th November and was met by Canadian Embassy staff and taken to our Embassy where the opening ceremony for a new Embassy was being held.  I received a warm welcome from the Ambassador and the Canadian Defence Attaché as well as many Korean and foreign dignitaries.  On Sunday I went to Busan via a very smooth bullet train (315 km/hr).  I was the lone UN Veteran in attendance but many Korean Veterans and Government officials participated in the wreath laying.

I was very touched by the respect and appreciation that the Korean people have for Canada for help given to them during and after the war of 1950-53.  It is amazing to see a country rise from the ashes to become the 10th largest economy in the world.  The cemetery is one of the most beautiful and well kept that I have ever seen.  It is completely funded and cared for by the Korean people.  The trip was quick and tiring but well worthwhile.'

(516 Canadians lost their lives in the Korean conflict)