Senator Michael McLachlan Honors Connecticut’s Korean War Veterans

Joins in Unveiling and Dedication of New State Korean War Memorial

Hartford, CT – State Senator Michael McLachlan (R-Danbury) joined with other state lawmakers and officials at a special ceremony in Hartford on Monday to unveil the state’s new Korean War memorial sculpture. The new memorial is located in the concourse of the state Legislative Office Building (LOB) in Hartford. It was designed by sculptor Clayton Fuller and depicts three soldiers in action during Operation Ripper in March, 1951.

“This Korean War Memorial has been a long time coming for our state’s brave men and women,” said Senator McLachlan. “And I can’t think of a more fitting time to pay tribute to those who served in the Korean War than during the week our country celebrates Veterans’ Day. I want to thank Vice Chair of the Select Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Sen. Gayle Slossberg for her efforts to bring the new monument to Hartford and in putting Monday’s ceremony together. I also want to thank Vice Chair Rep. Frank Nicastro, the co-chairs of the committee, Sen. Andrew Maynard and Rep. Ted Graziani as well as Ranking Members Sen. Len Fasano and Rep. John Harkins for their continued work on behalf of Connecticut’s veterans.”

Senator McLachlan welcomed a number of Korean War veterans from the Danbury Chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association to the memorial dedication ceremony. He was also especially proud to pay tribute to First Lieutenant Lee Hartell of Danbury for his heroic fighting during the Korean War. For his valiant efforts, Hartell received one of the highest military honors – the Medal of Honor.

“The Korean War claimed the lives of more than 300 Connecticut soldiers,” said Senator McLachlan. “Those we lost, and the thousands of Connecticut servicemen who served alongside them, deserve our gratitude and respect. I was proud to honor their contributions to peace and freedom around the world at Monday’s dedication ceremony. And I am prouder still that their sacrifice and dedication will be forever recognized by the state and by those who pass the beautiful memorial in the LOB.