Today, July 27, marks 64 years since the armistice that marked the end of the Korean War. Additionally, it has been only one year since President Barack Obama made the proclamation that designated this date to celebrate those who returned from and those who perished at the 38th parallel.

“On National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day, we honor all those who sacrificed for freedom's cause throughout 3 long years of war, and we reaffirm our commitment to the security of the Republic of Korea and the values that unite our nations,” said Obama in the proclamation.

Dubbed “The Forgotten War”— occurring between World War II and the Vietnam Conflict— the Korean War remains an ongoing engagement for South Korea and its allies. With tensions rising for the last decade, it is especially important to remember our soldiers’ sacrifice in the name of democracy and security for others.

Malcolm “Mac” Andrews of Boothbay Harbor enlisted during the height of the Korean War.

“I didn’t end up going to Korea,” Andrews said. “But they had us all lined up, getting shots in both arms, getting us ready to go.”

He enlisted with the Army in 1951, just four days after the new year. He started out at Fort Williams in Portland, spent 20 weeks of training at Fort Bragg, and then decided to pursue paratrooper training at Fort Benning, finding a place with Company D of the 508th Airborne.

When discharged from the Army on Dec. 15, 1953 — after nearly three years of service — Andrews had achieved the Parachutist Badge, Good Conduct Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal, completed 27 jumps, earned his wings, and had been placed on special duty at the Ranger School where he trained paratroopers.

“No war should ever be forgotten, and no veteran should ever be overlooked,” reads Obama’s proclamation. “Today… let us remember how liberty held its ground in the face of tyranny and how free peoples refused to yield. And most of all, let us give thanks to all those whose service and sacrifice helped to secure the blessings of freedom.”