On 18 September 2000, Lt Gen Michael V. Hayden, USAF, Director, National Security Agency/Chief, Central Security Service, unveiled a new National Cryptologic Museum exhibit highlighting the vital role cryptology played during the Korean War. This new exhibit commemorates the 50th anniversary of the conflict and seeks to honor the brave soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines who fought in "the land of the morning calm" to preserve freedom.
Gen Hayden kicked off the event with opening remarks regarding the important role signals intelligence (SIGINT) and communications security (COMSEC) played in the defense of the Pusan Perimeter and in helping the United States to prevail in the critical air campaign. He was followed by Mr. Raymond E. Donnelly, Jr., Chief of Volunteer Services for the Korean War Veterans Memorial Project. Mr. Donnelly recognized Mr. Al Ortiz, Korean War Veteran and six-time recipient of the Purple Heart medal, and spoke on the success of the Memorial Project and the 50th Anniversary Commemoration Committee.
The Director then invited COL Charles Borchini, USA, Deputy Director of the Korean War 50th Anniversary Commemoration Committee, to join him in the unfurling of the Korean War Commemorative Flag marking the official unveiling of the Korean War Exhibit.
In addition to the exhibit unveiling, a panel of both NSA and external historians conducted an historical discussion which provided newly declassified facts and personal recollections of the impact of cryptology in the Korean conflict. Ms. Jill E. Frahm, NSA Historian, presented her newly released paper entitled, "So Power Can Be Brought into Play: SIGINT and the Pusan Perimeter." Other panelists included Mr. Matthew M. Aid, Historian; Mr. Milton S. Zaslow, Former NSA Senior Executive; and Mr. Robert Louis Benson, Technical Director for Counterintelligence. NSA Historian, Dr. David A. Hatch, moderated the session.
Just outside the museum, Cpl Don Rollette, USMC, (Retired), of the United States Marines Reunion Association and PFC Michael Schauer, USMC (Retired), of the 1st Marine Division Association, sported 1950's military uniforms and displayed Korean War vintage jeeps and communications gear.
The event served as a tribute to the thousands of brave men and women who fought and died to preserve freedom for the people of South Korea. The commemoration was attended by veterans of the war and distinguished guests and was covered by both national and international press organizations.