SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (June 26, 2006) - Governor Mitch Daniels spent yesterday with Hoosier soldiers stationed in Korea and honored those who gave their lives during the Korean War.

"The Korean War is often referred to as the forgotten war," said Daniels. "On this, the 56th Anniversary of the North's invasion of the South, it seemed fitting to honor those who gave their lives in support of freedom and show our appreciation to those who continue protecting us today."

Governor Daniels' day began with a one-hour bus ride from Seoul to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The governor received a briefing from United Nations Commanders concerning their ongoing mission to protect South Korea. He visited the Joint Security Area, where only a small concrete step separates South Korea from the North. During his visit, North Korean soldiers approached within a few feet to observe the governor.

After his visit to the DMZ, the governor ate lunch with Hoosier troops stationed in the region. He passed along the best wishes of Hoosiers as the group ate cheeseburgers, ravioli, and Yankee pot roast.

The Indiana soldiers that met with Governor Daniels include: Staff Sergeant Ryan Maroney of Lucerne, Private Amanda Martin of Lafayette, Specialist Joseph Pratcher, Private Josh Dyer of Kentland, Specialist Joshua Davis, Private First Class Richard Pasco, Sergeant Andrew Hubbard of Bloomington, Sergeant Jayson Atkins of Indianapolis, Command Sergeant Major James Benedict, and Sergeant First Class Kanessa Trent of Fort Wayne.

Following the governor's visit to the DMZ, he returned to Seoul to visit the National Korean War Memorial. The governor placed flowers in front of a brass plaque bearing the names of the 887 Hoosiers who gave their lives during the Korean War and struck the National Drum of Peace three times in a call for peace in the world.

Governor Daniels and state economic development officials are leading their second mission to Asia from June 17 to 28. They will conclude their trip tomorrow after meetings with executives from Korean businesses interested in doing business in Indiana.

Photos from the governor's visit to the DMZ can be viewed here: http://www.ai.org/gov/media/asia_econ_trip.html