76 years ago, the Korean War began. On June 25, 1950, North Korea invaded over the 38th parallel, jeopardizing the lives and freedoms of the South Korean people.

None knew the risk of the loss of freedom better than former prisoners of war, and many of the former POWs from WWII, including those from Stalag Luft 3, went on to serve in the Korean War. One such man was Merlin Peers "Buddy" Mitchell of San Antonio, Texas.

Mitchell served in WWII as a Spitfire pilot with the 31st Fighter Group. He was shot down in Tunisia on March 8, 1943, and spent the remainder of the war as a POW at Stalag Luft 3, and later Stalag VII-A, when the camp was evacuated.

Although his exact role in the Korean War remains unknown, Mitchell's willingness to serve and risk his own freedom once again, is indicative of the character of the Greatest Generation. Mitchell lived to be 78, and lies in rest at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

According to official records from the U.S. Department of Defense Casualty Analysis System, nearly 1.8 million Americans stepped forward to serve in Korea. The DoD reported there were over 36,000 American deaths, with more than 103,000 wounded.

 Additionally, the National Archives military data reports that over 7,000 Americans were held as prisoners of war, with over 2,700 dying in captivity. Over 7,000 service remain missing in action and unaccounted for to this day.

As The American Legion said, "Today, South Korea is a vibrant and free country due to the service of our brave Korean War veterans."

Today and every day, we must remember those who gave their lives in this often forgotten war and ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.