On Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, Frank Wendland American Legion Post 253, Royal Oak, Mich., presented Korean War Service medals and certificates of appreciation from the government of South Korea to five veterans of the post who had served in Korea during the Korean War, 1950-1953.
Post Commander Don Wert had learned of the program some time ago. After researching the post records for those eligible, he wrote the letter to the South Korean government asking that they be presented to the five. It was accepted, and they were presented at the last post meeting.
Those present were Tony Zomerfeld, Cliff Tatum and Jim Hendy. Not present, due to illness and inclement weather, were Jack Dawson and Jim Scallon.
Their reactions were surprise, gratitude to the South Korean government, and thankfulness to be remembered after more than 60 years. Tony Zomerfeld said he was lucky to get out of Korea.
Shown in the photo, thanks to Post Historian John Wendland, are (L-R) Tony Zomerfeld, Cliff Tatum, Jim Hendy, Post Adjutant Ron Gooch and Post Commander Don Wert.

John Williams, United States Navy, 1958-1964 - ETR2 - USS Newport News CA148, 1959-1962
Trustee, Metropolitan Detroit Veterans Coalition
American Legion Post 253, Royal Oak, Mich.
Disabled American Veterans Chapter 19, South Oakland County