Kiwanis Memorial Park Korean War Memorial

This memorial plaque and bench, located between the Bessborough Hotel and the 25th Street Bridge, was erected by the Meewasin Valley Authority in memory of the Korean War. On 25 June 1950, North Korean troops crossed the 38th parallel into the Republic of Korea. Canada agreed to raise an Infantry Brigade Group to assist the South Koreans, British, and Americans defend the country. Over 10,000 men formed an all-volunteer force and by February 1951, the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry was in action. Although peace negotiations began that summer, the fighting continued until an armistice was signed on 27 July 1953. Approximately 27,000 Canadians served in Korea. Of our 1,558 casualties, 516 were fatalities.