Seoul: The veterans ministry on Tuesday designated late British Army Lt. Col. James Power Carne as the Korean War hero of April in recognition of his service during the 1950-53 war. Carne, who served as the commanding officer of the 1st Battalion, the Gloucestershire Regiment, part of the British 29th Infantry Brigade, was recognized for his valor in fighting for the defense of freedom, the ministry said.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the British brigade, under Carne's command, played a crucial role during a large-scale Chinese offensive into Seoul. The battle at Seolmari in Paju, just north of Seoul, saw Carne and his men hold off repeated enemy assaults for three days in April 1951. This resistance was pivotal in allowing the main U.N. forces to withdraw safely, reorganize their front lines, and establish a new defensive position north of Seoul.

Carne's leadership and bravery did not go unnoticed. In October 1953, the British government awarded him the Victoria Cross, the highest decoration of valor in the British armed forces, acknowledging his outstanding contributions during the conflict.