New Jersey Korean Service Medal

Approved February 3, 2003

The Legislature finds and declares July 27, 2003 will mark the 50th anniversary of the signing of the armistice which ended the Korean War. The conflict, often referred to as the "Forgotten War" began on June 25, 1950 when the North Korean Army crossed the border and invaded South Korea in an unprovoked attack. Their goal was the reunification of the Korean peninsula, divided after World War II along the 38th parallel. The United States involvement in that conflict resulted in 33,742 Americans dead and 92,134 Americans wounded. It is fitting and proper for this State to recognize and honor its residents who served and those who died in that conflict on the 50th anniversary of its ending.

The Adjutant General is hereby authorized to issue a medal and ribbon to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the armistice on July 27, 1953, which ended the Korean War.

Eligibility -
Veterans who meet all of the following:
~ New Jersey residents who were on active duty in any branch of the armed forces of the United States in Korea, Japan, or the contiguous waters or airspace thereof on or after June 23, 1950 and on or before January 31, 1955, who have been given an honorable discharge for their service and:
~ were attached to or served for one or more days with an organization participating in or directly supporting military operations; or
~ were attached to or served for one or more days aboard a United States Naval vessel directly supporting military operations; or
~ participated as a crew member in one or more aerial flights into airspace above Korea or contiguous areas, except that this time limit may be waived for persons participating in actual combat operations; or

Posthumous -
The surviving spouse or immediate family member of any resident of the State meeting the requirements for the medal who was killed while on active duty or who died after receiving an honorable discharge from the armed forces.

Application -
Anyone interested in applying for the New Jersey Korean Service should mail a completed application form together with copies of all pertinent information to the same address as the Distinguished Service Medal.