Bill seeks medals for Korean War service

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Waged between World War II, which brought the nation together, and the Vietnam War, which tore it apart, the Korean War is a historical footnote to many Americans.

However, legislation the General Assembly will consider next year could bring new attention to the sacrifices of Missourians who served in the conflict.

The bill would authorize state-issued medals for Korea veterans, similar to those already available to World War II veterans.

Korea veteran Elmer Schearf of Cape Girardeau said he recently received a similar medal from the federal government and would definitely seek the state honors if they became available.

"We need more recognition, because Korea is known as the Forgotten War," Schearf said. "It was not by any means forgotten by the ones who were there."

Schearf, now 70, served in the U.S. Army from 1948-51. He is a survivor of the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. Fought in late November and early December 1950, the Chinese pushed the badly outnumbered American forces south of the 38th parallel, the dividing line between North Korea and South Korea.

"It was the most fierce battle of the Korean War; I can't imagine one could be worse," Schearf said. "We had two enemies -- the arctic climate and the Chinese."

Though accounts vary, American forces numbering approximately 25,000 suffered 12,000 casualties during the battle, more than half to frostbite.

Deserving recognition

State Rep. Peter Myers Sr., R-Sikeston, is the lead sponsor of the Korean War medals bill. Myers said he drafted the measure at the request of constituents who asked for it after learning of the World War II medals program.

"Personally, I think they deserve recognition," Myers said.

If successful, any honorably discharged veteran who served on active military duty between June 25, 1950, and July 27, 1953, and who lived in Missouri as of Aug. 28, 2001, would be eligible.

The state Veterans Commission would design medallions, medals and certificates to be given to the veterans. The Missouri National Guard would administer the program.

Myers predicted the bill, on its merits, would enjoy strong legislative support. Five other Southeast Missouri lawmakers have already signed on as cosponsors.

However, he said, the cost of the program, which hasn't yet been estimated, could be a concern. With state budget officials predicting spending cuts, initiatives that call for new spending will face a tough time.

The World War II program is costing the state $3 million, but awards for Korea veterans would probably cost less because they are fewer in number.

Myers said he may simply seek the authorization for the program this year and pursue funding at such a time when the state can better afford it.

mpowers@semissourian.com

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