In a month’s time, we mark the beginning and end of the Korea War. It was 53 years ago on June 27, 1950, that North Korea attacked its neighbor, South Korea. The war ended July 27, 1953.

The United States of America suffered great losses, yet we are a nation of compassion and justice, we seek not revenge. Diplomacy has always been our very first option.

North Korea is on a policy of self-destruction. The country’s threatening attitude, in the eyes of the world, has failed. Hear the voice of your people. Let freedom ring.

Today we are free because of the many sacrifices made by our veterans. We hear the constant pain of our Gold Star Parents.

As founder of the new veterans memorial park, on this Fourth of July, Independence Day, all of us will be standing on the land of the free because of the many sacrifices made by our men and women veterans.

Joseph Paradis, Lewiston