“GIVE ME TOMORROW – Korean War Veterans Memorial” Slogan Marks the Culmination of 8-Year Effort
On the afternoon of September 23 at 2:00 PM, the Korean War Veterans Memorial Committee held a groundbreaking ceremony at General Park in Aurora (1561 Quentin Street, Aurora, CO 80045) under the slogan “GIVE ME TOMORROW – Korean War Veterans Memorial.” Despite the chilly, rainy weather, over 100 dignitaries and community members attended to celebrate the beginning of this long-awaited project, the result of over eight years of fundraising and community commitment.
Due to inflation following the COVID-19 pandemic, construction costs had significantly exceeded original estimates. While nearly $200,000 had been raised, it was not enough to begin construction. Thanks to the help of Becky Hogan, however, the committee secured a grant exceeding $600,000 from Adams County, making the project possible. The committee stated, “It has taken a very long time. Though we appealed to the Korean government, various institutions, and the community, fundraising was difficult for many reasons. We are truly delighted to finally begin construction.”
The ceremony was hosted by Kevin Hogan, who opened with a welcoming address. Pastor Kwang-Oh Kim led the Pledge of Allegiance and flag salute. The event gained a special spiritual tone with a traditional Mayan blessing delivered by Kim Nelson, a Mayan spiritual guide and priest.
Peter Lee (Lee Seung-Woo), a board member of the UN Korean War Memorial Foundation, explained the purpose of the memorial, saying, “This memorial honors the soldiers who fought for Korea’s freedom and continues their plea for a better tomorrow — ‘Give me tomorrow.’” He shared his gratitude, stating, “As an immigrant, I am only able to stand here today because of the sacrifices of these veterans.” He added, “Today is not just about the present; it’s about preparing for tomorrow. The shape of that tomorrow depends on all of us.”
Peter Lee also noted that this project was first envisioned about a decade ago by the late Aurora Mayor Steve Hogan. Mayor Hogan had personally chosen the site and led the initial design. His wife, Becky Hogan, has carried forward his legacy with dedicated work over the past eight months. Lee also highlighted the contribution of Co-Chair Suzie Park and her husband, former Lions Club President Nohbok Park. The couple, who immigrated to the U.S. in their 30s, served in the U.S. military, with Mr. Park now recognized as a disabled veteran. Suzie Park jokingly said, “I’m only 83 years young,” and promised to continue volunteering for another 20 years. Lee emphasized, “This project doesn’t end today — it carries on into tomorrow and beyond.”
During his speech, Lee presented a visual comparison of Korea in the 1950s and modern Korea, highlighting that Korea’s remarkable transformation was made possible by the sacrifices of veterans. He also thanked Aurora’s Parks Department and other sponsors for their support, stating, “This memorial isn’t just for today — it’s a space of remembrance and education for future generations.”
The main ceremony featured readings from veterans’ memoirs. George Eckman’s story was read by his son, Jonas Wolfkill; Suzie Park’s memoir was read by Elaine So; and Vincent Scalzo’s account was delivered by David Jaworowski — all vividly conveying the memories and lessons of war.
Afterwards, Becky Hogan and Suzie Park explained ways the public could contribute and the privileges of supporting the memorial project.
Suzie Park shared a heartfelt message, again mentioning humorously that she was “just 83,” while expressing deep gratitude as a member of the wartime generation to the U.S. and United Nations allies.
“I hope this memorial will serve as a source of comfort and reflection for the fallen soldiers, their families, and for our children,” she said.
The media turnout was substantial, with several broadcast and newspaper outlets covering the event. The Aurora Sister Cities Korean Committee (co-chairs Jennifer Park and Sean Choi) contributed pastries from Tous Les Jours and drinks from 3456Tea, as well as making cash donations. Throughout the event, community members also placed generous donations into collection boxes.
Notably, last year, Aurora’s sister city, Seongnam, South Korea, pledged to assist with the fundraising effort. Seongnam Mayor Sang-Jin Shin publicly declared his support for the campaign, and the Moran Rotary Club in Seongnam is now actively involved in the effort. The committee expressed gratitude, stating, “Knowing that even those in Korea are supporting this project wholeheartedly gives us great strength.”
One attendee remarked, “This memorial is not just for the Korean community — it’s for everyone who served in the Korean War or had family involved. Seeing so many come together to commemorate this history is deeply moving.”
The groundbreaking concluded with a grounding ceremony. Attendees gathered for commemorative photos, exchanged greetings with long-time friends, and celebrated the historic moment of turning the first shovel of soil.
This event was more than a start to construction — it was a collective promise to honor the legacy of the Korean War, the sacrifices of its veterans, and to uphold the values of peace and freedom for generations to come. The memorial is expected to serve as a site of education and remembrance not only for Aurora but also in tribute to all 22 nations that participated in the war.
However, the work is far from over. Though support from institutions, organizations, and individuals has enabled this initial groundbreaking, the completion and long-term maintenance of the memorial will require continued support. The committee stressed, “To ensure this memorial fully serves its purpose as a lasting place of education and memory for future generations, we urgently need the ongoing support of the community.
How to Contribute
UN Heritage for Korean War
10555 E. Dartmouth Ave., Suite 250
Aurora, CO 80014
Direct Deposit (First Bank Colorado):
- Routing Number: 107005047
- Account Number: 3811259398
For inquiries:
Phone: 303-870-1290
Email: honorkwvets@gmail.com
