Guy Black wanted to bring awareness to the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Kap’Yong and he is letting his legs do most of the talking.
On Thursday, the 56-year-old from Coquitlam made his way through Ladner as part of a 300-kilometre walking journey that began at the Radar Hill-Kap’Yong, located in Pacific Rim National Park in Tofino on April 7. His trek will conclude later today (Friday) at the Korean War Memorial in Langley.
The Battle of Kap’yong, took place April 22 to 25 in 1951. It was part of the Korean War that saw Canadian troops help block and prevent the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army from re-capturing Seoul. Ten Canadians died in the fierce battle including one from B.C.
Black’s commemorative T-shirt includes the names of the 10 soldiers.
“I really wanted to create awareness about the Korean War and make people aware there are Korean War veterans that are still around and to thank them,” explained Black, a former army cadet and military historian. “I’ve got to know a few Korean War veterans. I appreciate what they have done and also see the lack of attention they get.”
Black began preparing for the walk back in November. He has encountered heavy snow and rain while walking through the mountains of Tofino. His son is accompanying him in the family motorhome for his meals and sleeping.
He has also been joined by Clinton Lee, 16, for the final leg of the journey.
