Tax refunds to help build war museum

The Internal Revenue Service is helping a charity earn money this tax season.

This year an extra check-off box will appear in the overpayment and refund section of the PA Personal Income Tax form, giving taxpayers the opportunity to donate their refunds to a worthy cause.

Korea/Vietnam Memorial Inc. is seeking donations and Pennsylvania income tax refunds from individuals, businesses and organizations.

Proceeds will support the creation of the Korea/Vietnam Memorial National Education Center to be built on an 8-acre site located at 4100 Dorney Park Road in Allentown.

According to a news release from Korea/Vietnam Memorial Inc., costs for the project are estimated at more than $5 million for site preparation, construction and facility support. The site was donated by Lehigh County.

Once built, the center will offer historically significant artifacts from the Korea and Vietnam conflicts, in addition to memorabilia from other conflicts involving U.S. military forces.

A resource library will be open to students and teachers. An on-site seminar and conference facility will also be available for civic, veteran and military programs.

Proponents of the project hope it will foster greater understanding of the Korea and Vietnam conflicts.

Those wishing to support the Korea/Vietnam Memorial National Education Center may donate through the tax form or by sending a donation to: Korea/Vietnam Memorial National Education Center, P.O. Box 416, Bethlehem, PA, 18016-0416.

--by Melissa Ritter