Wisconsin Korean War Veterans Memorial ceremony set for June 7 in Plover

By Brandi Makuski

PLOVER — The annual Wisconsin Korean War Veterans Memorial Ceremony will return to Lake Pacawa Park next month, honoring Wisconsin veterans who fought, died, or remain missing from the Korean War.

The ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, June 7, at the Wisconsin Korean War Veterans Memorial Island in Plover. Pre-ceremony music will begin at 10:45 a.m., with the formal ceremony starting at 11 a.m. Organizers said the event will be held rain or shine.

The memorial features larger-than-life bronze statues representing the various branches of the U.S. armed forces that participated in the war. According to the Village of Plover, none of the statues carry weapons, symbolizing the hope for peace shared by veterans.

The event is open to Korean War veterans, their families, veterans from all military branches, and members of the public.

Scheduled speakers include State Sen. Patrick Testin, State Rep. Vincent Miresse, Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary James Bond, and village officials.

Because the ceremony is held outdoors, organizers encourage attendees to dress for the weather and bring items such as blankets, umbrellas, jackets, fans, and water. Seating will be available, though guests may also bring lawn chairs.

Visitors can reach the memorial by taking Interstate 39 to County Hwy. B in Plover, then heading west to Village Park Drive, where designated parking areas will be available. Restroom facilities inside the Sentry Curling Center will also be open during the event.