ULLADULLA High School student David Robertson is packing his bags and heading to South Korea as he prepares to relive some of Australia’s military history.
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He is one of 10 students who will walk in the footsteps of Australian soldiers who fought in South Korea.
The Korean War was fought from 1950 to 1953 and Minister for Citizenships and Communities Victor Dominello said the visit aimed to keep students connected to the Anzac spirit.
“This is an important place of pilgrimage, the Korean War cost the lives of 340 Australians but is often overlooked in our country’s history,” Mr Dominello said.
“To honour and remember the Australians who sacrificed so much for our country we need to ensure future generations learn about the realities of war and the legacy of their forbears.
“This is a high calibre group of students, I know they will make the most of this experience and I wish them all a safe and productive trip.”
The students, accompanied by two teachers, will depart on Tuesday, April 22.
The 13-day journey will take them to sites of military and cultural significance in South Korea.
David’s interest in modern history was sparked by his ancestry, with family members fighting in battles as far back as the Boer War.
David said he was excited to be retracing the steps of Australian soldiers in South Korea.
“I’m looking forward to going to the battlefields and almost walking in the footsteps of soldiers,” he said.
“I can’t wait to see what they did and stand exactly where they stood.”
The trip will include a visit to the battlefield of Kapyong, walking in the footsteps of our fallen soldiers and meeting with Korean students at a local school.
Students will also conduct a service at the Australia Memorial located at Kapyong.
The battle of Kapyong, also known as the Battle of Jiaping, was between UN Forces made up of Australian and Canadian troops and the Chinese communist People’s Volunteer Army.
David is looking forward to visiting the site where the battle of Kapyong took place.
“That’s what I’m looking forward to the most,” David said.
“It was a major battle for Australian soldiers and is considered the most famous action fought during the Korean War.
“The Australians were outnumbered and still managed to win the battle so I guess it’s a great example of the Anzac spirit.”
Students will also visit the Demilitarised Zone that straddles North and South Korea, the War Memorial of Korea in Seoul and the United National Cemetery at Busan.
When David returns on May 4 he will play a valuable role in sharing his experiences and knowledge with community and plans to give a presentation about his visit.