Korean War veterans honored at race

The Great Texas Balloon Race invites all Korean War veterans to the opening ceremony Friday night at the East Texas Regional Airport. Race organizers will honor Korean War veterans with a tribute to their military service during the opening ceremony.

The Korean War Veteran's Association, Chapter 286 from Tyler, will present a moving memorial to the 36,940 military personnel who died in the Korea and also honor the 1,789,000 who served there, 92,134 of whom were wounded.

"The Korean War is often referred to as 'The Forgotten War,' and that's one reason we felt it was time to honor those who served in Korea," said Les Rickett, advisory board member for the Great Texas Balloon Race. "As we honored World War II veterans last year, and it was so well received, the Korean War was the next logical step."

Veterans of the Korean War and widows of veterans are encouraged to attend the race with complimentary tickets and assistance from the entrance gate to reserved seating at the main stage. Refreshments for the vets will be provided by the Made Rite Company.

For complimentary tickets and to RSVP, veterans may call Gai Bennett at 903- 720-5000.

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