Worcester, Massachusetts, July 17, 2003 - The United States Postal Service (USPS) will join the Korean War Memorial Committee of Central Massachusetts and U.S. Representative James P. McGovern to unveil a commemorative Korean War Veterans Memorial postage stamp at the site of Worcester's future Korean War Memorial at 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 27, the 50th Anniversary of the signing of the armistice that ended the War.

The commemorative 37-cent stamp depicts the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, showing statues of servicemen from each service branch marching in wedge formation. The commemorative stamp program gives all Americans an opportunity to share in the pioneering spirit and great pride that is a hallmark of our country.

"This commemorative stamp is testimony to the fact that the U.S. Postal Service remembers and honors our country's veterans and the high price they pay for our freedom," said John "Mike" Powers III, Middlesex Central District Manager, USPS. Korean War Veterans attending the event will receive a special cachet envelope affixed with a first-issue, Korean War Veterans Memorial stamp and a rendering of the future Central Massachusetts Korean War Memorial from Stephen L. Rossetti, Officer in Charge of the Joseph D. Early Post Office in Worcester.

"Today, as we remember and honor those who fought in this Forgotten War, it is important to remember that Freedom Is Not Free. It also is quite fitting to remember the 191 servicemen and women from Central Massachusetts who died in the Korean War, as well as their families and loved ones, for whom this Korean War Memorial will be built," said Kenneth Swift, Commander of the Korean War Veterans Association of Central Massachusetts and Vice Chairman of the Korean War Memorial Committee.

Also as part of the event, Francis R. Carroll, Chairman of the Korean War Memorial Committee, is expected to provide veterans and others in attendance with an update on construction of the Memorial. The Memorial site is located on Worcester Center Boulevard near Bridge Street, across from the Worcester Common Outlet garage.

Anyone wanting more information about the Memorial should call Toll Free 1-800-343-0939, extension 234. Meanwhile, bricks, pavers (large granite squares) and benches can still be purchased for inclusion in the Memorial by contacting the Korean War Memorial Committee of Central Mass., Inc., P.O. Box 16568, Worcester, MA 01601.

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