As a Kansas City Fox4 morning news anchor more than two decades, Mark Alford often served as an emcee or speaker informing and inspiring Kansas Citians at events throughout the city. And the Missouri Korean War Veterans Memorial at Washington Square Park in Kansas City benefited from Alford’s years of commitment supporting veterans.
“My father-in-law was a Korean War Veteran. I wanted to raise the service and sacrifices of Korean War veterans to their proper place of distinction,” Alford said of the many occasions he promoted the Missouri Korean War Veterans Memorial as it was built and dedicated in Kansas City.
“I met Jim Shultz in Kansas City, a marine veteran who fought at the Chosin Reservoir, Puson and for the liberation of Seoul. My father-in-law, Jim, and learning how many Missourians served in Korea, including more than 900 from the state of Missouri who paid the supreme sacrifice and gave their lives in defense of South Korea, inspired my interest,” Alford said. “I offered my services and became more aware and involved supporting the memorial and Missouri veterans.”
Alford said the military and military economy is very important to western Missouri with the Whiteman Air Force Base, home to US Air Force Global Strike Command and the B-2 Stealth Bomber near Warrensburg, and Fort Leonard Army training base in the Ozarks. He’s passionate about another issue too.
“My father-in-law came home with rheumatic fever,” Alford said. “The long waits veterans may face for health care is despicable. We must get back to portable health services and health care choices for veterans.”
Alford hopes to continue being a strong advocate for preserving the critical bases in Missouri and for other military issues, especially military health issues.
Written By: Martha Walker
