The Korean War Memorial was erected on March 5, 2023 as a collaborative effort between the Towns of Aurora and Stouffville, and the Township of King. It was designed by Alex Theaker, an Aurora resident who won the contest held to select the memorial's design.
The solidity and stability of the granite reflects the longstanding commitment that the Canadian Armed Forces has observed in its defense of those in need. Its permanence also reflects the desire to communicate the sacrifice that was made for future generations, however many years removed. The dual flags, represented in their true ratios, placed equally, show the mutual respect that Canada and South Korea share, as well as our shared responsibility to preserve the memory of those lost.
Lake Wilcox (Oak Ridges) and Whitchurch-Stouffville responded to the call and volunteered for service in Korea. A total of 20 local boys served in the war. Of the 20 identified, 11 were from Aurora, 4 from King, 4 from Lake Wilcox and 1 from Newmarket. Two from Lake Wilcox were wounded in action. Four from the Whitchurch-Stouffville area served in the war, three returned home but sadly, one did not. Trooper Joseph Raymond Bell, age 20 of Stouffville, died of wounds incurred during battle on June 6, 1953.
