Bangor Korean War memorial to be dedicated this summer

BANGOR — It looks as though a Korean War memorial will be built and dedicated this year, according to Kenneth Buckley, treasurer of the Burton-Goode-Sargent Chapter 1, Maine Korean War Veterans.

The memorial will honor Maine’s 233 servicemen killed during the Korean War, 1950-53, and all veterans who have served since.

Foundation work is expected to start this spring in Mount Hope Cemetery, where the 101st Civil Engineering Battalion of the Maine Air National Guard will build a foundation for the 11-ton, 10-foot-high memorial.

Members of the chapter are attempting to pave a 60-foot walkway with “dedication stones” they are selling to individuals, businesses and fraternal organizations. Stones may bear a three-line, 17-character message honoring a veteran.

The idea of dedication stones was conceived by Massachusetts Korean War veterans.

Veterans have paid for more than half of the total cost of the memorial, including perpetual care at Mount Hope, and now are attempting to finish the drive for the walkway.

A groundbreaking ceremony, candlelight observance and reading of names, followed by June 25 and July 27 dedication ceremonies, will mark the 45th anniversary of the start of the war, and the 42nd anniversary of the truce signing. The dedication coincides with the dedication of the national memorial in Washington, D.C., July 27. For more information write to Memorial, 207 Forest Ave., Bangor 04401.