SEOUL, South Korea, September 11, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- In commemoration of the 60th Korean War anniversary, war veterans Joseph C. Tirrell and Jason W. Bowling will finally make their long journey back to the land of the morning calm, a war-torn country they left nearly 60 years ago.
Tirrell with his wife and Bowling with his daughter Karen L. Healy, the grand prize winners of the essay contest "Korean War Veteran's Enduring Legacy", received a once-in-a-lifetime trip to South Korea. The contest was held in honor of the Korean War veterans and to offer U.S. veterans and their families an opportunity to share their stories and a chance to experience South Korea's numerous post-war achievements, especially in the healthcare industry.
"No nation in the world has achieved Korea's remarkable transition, from an international medical aid recipient to a donor, which would not have been possible without the help of so many," said Dr. Cho, director-general of KHIDI U.S. branch. "Korea became the world's 13th largest economy in just one generation. We wanted to offer a meaningful gift to aging veterans who have longed to see the Miracle of the Han River and for their children to see what their fathers' sacrifice and courage meant for Korea."
Hosted by KHIDI, Korea Health Industry Development Institute, the winners will take part in a week of activities, including cutting-edge health and wellness programs at world-renowned medical facilities. They will receive VIP health screening services at Seoul National University Hospital and Seoul St. Mary's Hospital. Chaum and Jaseng Hospitals of Oriental Medicine will also provide them with Power Aging Test Programs and Spinal Health Check-ups, respectively.
"It is honor and privilege to receive this invitation to Korea from people so industrious and genuinely gracious. After all these years, we are more than excited to see the great modern wonders of Korea reborn from the ashes of war," said Tirrell.
Healy also commented, "I'm honored to accompany my veteran father on his return visit to Korea. His service during the War was such an impact on his life -- and ultimately on mine. This is a treasure to spend time in Korea together, and for my dad to see first-hand how much the country has changed and grown."
The winners will also participate in the annual Revisit Korea program from Sept 14-17.
Contact:
Yang Ji-young
Korea Health Industry Development Institute
Global Healthcare Business Department
+82-43-713-8248
korexport1@gmail.com
