Oregon Korean War Memorial ~ With Honor

When we travel on business, we attempt to see the historical things that are in the area - if we can find the time. This trip, we were able to visit the Oregon Korean War Memorial in Wilsonville, Oregon. This beautiful memorial is a gift from the Korean War Veterans Association, Oregon Trail Chapter. It sits in the midst of a beautiful park. When we visited, the park was nearly empty, but we saw several people stop and pay their respects. Just south of Portland, Oregon, it is a visit worth making.

The 94' long Wall of Honor contains the names of the 298 servicemen from Oregon killed in the Korean War. It also contains a remembrance and honor to the Oregon Medal of Honor winner, SFC Loren Kaufman, from the Korean War. The large area is paved with story boards of the highlights of the war and paver stones from donors. The flags of the United States, MIA/POW, Republic of Korea, State of Oregon and the United Nations fly above the memorial. It is a place of honor - serene and respectful. It makes you value and remember the sacrifices made for us.

SFC Loren R Kaufman

July 27, 1923 - February 10, 1951

U.S. Army, Company G, 9th Infantry Regiment

Earned The Medal of Honor During the Korean War For Heroism

September4 & 05, 1950 at Yongsan, Korea

Citation: SFC Kaufman distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. On the night of 4 September the company was in a defensive position on 2 adjoining hills. His platoon was occupying a strong point 2 miles away protecting the battalion flank. Early on 5 September the company was attacked by an enemy battalion and his platoon was ordered to reinforce the company. As his unit moved along a ridge it encountered a hostile encircling force. SFC Kaufman, running forward, bayoneted the lead scout and engaged the column in a rifle and grenade assault. His quick Vicious attack so surprised the enemy that they retreated in confusion. When his platoon joined the company he discovered that the enemy had taken commanding ground and pinned the company down in a draw. Without hesitation SFC Kaufman charged the enemy lines firing his rifle and throwing grenades. During the action, he bayoneted 2 enemy and seizing an unmanned machine gun, delivered deadly fire on the defenders. Following this encounter the company regrouped and resumed the attack. Leading the assault he reached the ridge, destroyed a hostile machine gun position, and routed the remaining enemy. Pursuing the hostile troops he bayoneted 2 more and then rushed a mortar position shooting the gunners. Remnants of the enemy fled to a village and SFC Kaufman led a patrol into the town, dispersed them, and burned the buildings. The dauntless courage and resolute intrepid leadership of SFC Kaufman were directly responsible for the success of his company in regaining its positions, reflecting distinct credit upon himself and upholding the esteemed traditions of the military service.

Five months later, SFC Kaufman was killed in the action in Korea. He was from The Dalles, Oregon and had also served in WWII. Never forget his sacrifice, his honor, his courage.