VFW Post 3278 observed the 60th anniversary of the Korean Armistice on Wednesday, July 10th and presented the Commemorative Korean Service Medal to SGS Ronald T. Payne.

The observance recognized veterans of the Korean conflict.  VFW officials give the following historical context of the conflict:

On June 24, 1948 the Soviet Union made it plain that it intended to disrupt American foreign policy by invoking the Berlin Blockage. That date began the Cold War. On June 25, 1950 the Soviet’s unleashed their surrogate forces, the North Korean Communists, in an unprovoked attack on South Korea. Three years later the first of the containments wars was over.

SGS Ronald T. Payne, formally of the USMC, having met the requirements as set by the United States Congress and the Department of the Navy was awarded the Commemorative Korean Service Medal.

This commemorative medal honors those who served during the Korean War. The Commemorative Korea Service Medal (KSM) and is authorized to members of the Armed Forces who have served on active duty in support of the defense of the Republic of Korea from June 27, 1950 to July 27, 1954. The area of eligibility encompasses all land area of the Republic of Korea, and the contiguous water out to 12 nautical miles, and all air spaces above the land and water areas. Service members must have been assigned, attached or mobilized to units operating in the area of eligibility.

SGS Payne’s awards include the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Sea Service Ribbon, China Service Medal and the Good Conduct Ribbon.  Pictured above left is SGS Payne receiving his the Commemorative Korean Service Medal, also pictured is Junior Commander Todd Powell.  Photo contributed.