SEOUL, July 31 (Yonhap) -- The veterans ministry on Friday designated a late U.S. captain as the hero of August for his role in preventing North Korean advances at a mountainous battle during the 1950-53 Korean War.

The late U.S. Capt. Robert Timmons was recognized for his role in defending the Sobuk mountain area, near Haman and Masan in South Gyeongsang Province, from North Korean forces' advances in August 1950.

Timmons died from an enemy attack while being carried away for his injuries. His body was found the following year and later buried at Arlington National Cemetery near Washington.

The battle served as the stepping stone to the success of the Incheon Landing Operation, which played a pivotal role in turning the tide of the war and repelling the invading North Korean troops.

The U.S. government posthumously awarded the late captain a Silver Star, the third-highest military combat award for bravery in action against an enemy.

sookim@yna.co.kr

(END)

• Police drop underage dating charge against actor Kim Soo-hyun
• S. Korea formally completes development of homegrown KF-21 fighter jet
• Fans, celebrities support BTS' Grammy boycott
• S. Korea in talks with U.S. military over air base access following white phosphorus leak: sources

• BTS' 'Arirang' returns to top 10 on Billboard 200

• S. Korea formally completes development of homegrown KF-21 fighter jet

• Police drop underage dating charge against actor Kim Soo-hyun
• S. Korea in talks with U.S. military over air base access following white phosphorus leak: sources
• (3rd LD) SK Group chairman ordered to pay 944 bln won in asset division to ex-wife
• Trump threatens 'substantial' Section 301 tariffs on EU after Google fine