2026 Memorial Day Ceremony

 

On May 25, 2026, at 2:00 PM, a Memorial Day commemoration ceremony was held at the Exeter Korean War Memorial. The event was attended by the families and relatives of Korean War veterans as well members of the Korean American Association of Rhode Island (KAARI). RI Korean War Veterans Commander Richard Mende, and KAARI President Angela Sharkey jointly laid a wreath at the memorial monument.

 

This year marks the 76th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War. With solemn hearts, all attendees observed a moment of silence, reflecting upon the noble sacrifices of the fallen heroes. During the ceremony, the KAARI presented a plaque honoring the service and achievements of the Commander Mende.  KAARI’s Bongsup Cho introduced Commander Mende's distinguished background, after which President Sharkey presented the plaque to him. Commander Mende served in the Korean War from 1952 to 1954; since returning home, he has dedicated himself to serving the veteran community and has also actively collaborated with the KAARI. Please refer to the biography prepared by Commander Richard Mende's daughter, Nancy, below.

 

Following the ceremony, the group gathered for lunch at Hibachi restaurant in Warwick, where they shared a meal and exchanged warm words of fellowship.

 

Commander Richard Mende Bio

 

 

Richard Mende was the second oldest of four boys raised in Providence during the Great Depression, a time when most families had very little. Despite the hardships of those years, Richard developed a lifelong passion for athletics, especially gymnastics. He became a dedicated member of the Providence Turners Club, an organization founded on the German principle of “Sound Mind, Sound Body.” For more than 30 years, Rich worked there as a gymnastics coach, helping to mentor young athletes while building lasting friendships. It was also at the Turners Club that he met his future wife, Patty.

 

During the Korean War, Rich was drafted into military service. When his brother Bob learned of the draft, he immediately enlisted, determined not to let his brother serve alone. Rich has always looked back on his military service with pride and strongly believes in the value and positive impact of serving one’s country.

 

After returning home from Korea, Rich took advantage of the GI Bill to earn his bachelor’s degree from Bryant University, then known as Bryant College. He first worked in banking before beginning a distinguished career with school ring manufacturer Dieges & Clust, now part of Herff Jones. Over more than 40 years with the company, Rich worked in accounting, purchasing, and customer service. He especially valued his relationships with the staff and students at the nation’s military academies.

 

To those who know him best, Rich is remembered first and foremost as a faithful and loving husband to his beloved wife, Patty, for more than 60 years. He misses her deeply. Rich remains devoted to his family and stays closely connected to his four daughters, 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and three brothers.

 

At a stage of life when many seniors choose maintenance-free living, Rich continues to take pride in caring for the home he and his brother Bob built together more than 60 years ago. He enjoys working outdoors, tending the yard, tackling projects, and keeping busy around the house.

 

Rich is known for his honesty, discipline, and lifelong commitment to health and fitness. He has exercised faithfully throughout his life and still begins each morning with daily calisthenics. Family and friends also know him as practical, frugal, and dependable. A devoted practicing Catholic, his faith has always been an important part of his life.

 

Following retirement, Rich became active in the Korean War Veterans Association, where he valued the camaraderie and friendships of fellow veterans. He also developed meaningful relationships with many Korean Americans who deeply appreciate the sacrifices made by American soldiers during the Korean War.

 

In addition to his lifelong commitments to family, faith, and service, Rich dedicated himself to charitable causes. For more than 25 years, he participated in the MS 150 fundraiser, riding 150 miles by bicycle to raise money and awareness for multiple sclerosis research and support programs.