In 1950, with Soviet support, North Korea invaded South Korea. The ensuing war lasted until 1953, with the United Nations and the United States entering the conflict soon after it began. For the United States, participation in the Korean War was integral to the containment of Communism, though it came at a cost of more than 30,000 American combat deaths. One of those casualties was Donald Cushman, who was killed early in the war. In October 1950, General Douglas MacArthur wrote this letter of condolence to Donald Cushman’s mother, Mary, in Bangor, Maine. MacArthur offered his sympathies, writing, “It is my earnest prayer that Almighty God will sustain and strengthen you in this hour of trial.” He also told Mrs. Cushman that “Some measure of comfort may be derived from the knowledge that he died in the service of his country and in defense of a peace-loving people.”

A full transcript is available.

Transcript

GENERAL HEADQUARTERS
UNITED NATIONS COMMAND
OFFICE OF THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF

24 October 1950

Dear Mrs. Cushman:

The untimely and tragic loss of your son, Donald, who met his death on the field of battle in Korea, has shocked all of us deeply. Some measure of comfort may be derived from the knowledge that he died in the service of his country and in the defense of a peace-loving people.

I am confident that his devotion to duty, at the cost of all he held dear, will hasten the day when ruthless aggressions shall disappear from the face of the earth and free men everywhere will live together in peace and harmony.

Our faith enables us to withstand the shock and grief of death. It is my earnest prayer that Almighty God will sustain and strengthen you in this hour of trial. While the loss of your beloved one will be a hardship, we know that no life is really lost for those who have faith in God.

Sincerely yours,
Douglas MacArthur (signed)
DOUGLAS MacARTHUR