A Pause in Fighting
The
armistice was signed over fifty years ago, declaring the conclusion of fighting
until other terms could be discussed. However, Rhee didn't actually sign the document, technically allowing either side to start fighting again without notice.
Six days before the armistice was signed, US Lieutenant General Taylor reminded
UN troops that "[an] armistice does not mean the war is over. ... We must constantly be on the alert
and ready for a resumption of hostilities, in case ... the enemy breaches the
terms of armistice" (Time, June 22, 1953). The armistice states that its purpose is only to "insure a complete
cessation of hostilities and of all acts of armed force in Korea until a final
peaceful settlement is achieved."
"The signing of an armistice will not be an occasion for celebration or boisterous conduct. While ... we may rejoice when combat casualties end, as determined soldiers we recognize that much remains to be done. ... The armistice is not a peace—it is only a pause in the fighting." -Time, June 22, 1953
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