Memorial Day 2026 Memorialization at Yanghwajin Cemetery in Seoul, Korea

June 1 (UPI) -- On Memorial Day 2026 -- May, 25, 2026 -- American Legion Colonel Lewis L. Millet Memorial Post 38 memorialized the sacrifice of United States veterans buried at the Yanghwajin Cemetery in Mapo Ward, Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Located on the north side of the Han River along a hilly slope just south of Hapjeong Subway Station, the cemetery was established in 1890 and serves as the burial site for 376 souls, 27 of whom were United States military personnel.

These 27 service members varied in rank from Brevet Brigadier General to private, as well as varying in sites and war zones in which they served.

During the 1950-1953 Korean War, damage occurred to a number of the grave markers; this damage is still visible.

Yanghwajin is an historic location that once served as a military encampment that served as part of a river defense during the Choson Dynasty's capital from 1392 to 1897.

The cemetery is small (14,000 square meters) and is protected as a "cemetery park" of the Special City of Seoul.

Leading the memorialization ceremony were Post 38 Commander Lon Garwood, Adjutant Steve Tharp, Chaplain Tim Lane, and Post 2nd Vice Commander Bob Collins. American Legion Post 38 has led this memorialization ceremony for several years to date. This Memorial Day observance reflects the continuing commitment of the American Legion and Lewis L. Millett Memorial Post 38 to honor those who served our nation and to ensure they are remembered.

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This story was originally published June 1, 2026 at 9:31 AM.