M*A*S*H stars to take part in Fayetteville veterans celebration

Actors Jamie Farr, who portrayed Cpl. Klinger, Loretta Swit, who played Maj. Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan, and William Christopher, who played chaplain Father Mulcahy, will participate in the Nov. 8-11 event.

"We are ecstatic to have cast members of M*A*S*H joining us for Heroes Homecoming III this year,” John Meroski, chief executive of the Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, said in a statement. “M*A*S*H brought much needed awareness and recognition to veterans and victims of the Korean War, and the actors' presence at Heroes Homecoming III is an important reminder that we have not forgotten the sacrifices of those soldiers."

The actors will interact with soldiers and families stationed at Fort Bragg, recount memorable experiences from the set of M*A*S*H, attend a Veterans Day blood drive and provide autographs and photo opportunities throughout the weekend, officials said.

The event will also feature a parade and an all-night M*A*S*H marathon at the Airborne and Special Operations Museum on Nov. 9.

The Korean War is often referred to as “the forgotten war” because it was fought between the higher-profile World War II and the Vietnam War. About 34,000 Americans were killed during the three-year conflict, which ended 60 years ago this week.

"There are so many veterans who have served," said James Humphries, who served in Korea. "A lot of them have gotten lost after they returned home. Some of them have been forgotten. People will pass them in the street and not speak to them."

Meroski said Heroes Homecoming is committed to honoring every Korean War veteran and ensuring that they will always be remembered.

“For too long, these veterans have been largely forgotten by the public, and no amount of gratitude can thank them for their brave service and sacrifice," he said. "The heroic actions of our soldiers, both past and present, are unspeakable and deserve unmeasurable amounts of recognition, and we are proud to be hosting an event in their honor.”