The Korean War, fought from June 25, 1950, to July 27, 1953, was presented as the most important event of the 20th century and the first time the United States used force to implement its policy of containing Communism. Americans served in large numbers, with 1.6 million serving, and United States casualties totaling 54,246 killed, including 919 from Missouri and 5 from St. Charles County, 103,284 wounded in action, 8,177 missing in action, and 7,140 prisoners of war. Major actions listed include the Battle of Pusan Naktong Perimeter, the Battle of Inchon and liberation of Seoul, the Battle of Chosin Reservoir, Operation Ripper, the Battle of Heartbreak Ridge, the biggest air battle called Black Tuesday, the Battle of Bunker Hill, the war's largest air raid, Operation Showdown, the heaviest naval bombardment on the Communist lines at Kosong, the Battle of Pork Chop Hill, and the final U. S. ground combat.