Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

National Defense Minister visits the US 1st Marine Division to join US Veterans Invitational Event

“We will not forget the bravery shown in the Incheon Landing Operations”
Minister of National Defense Jeong Kyeong-doo also vowed to support the development of a forward-looking ROK–US alliance

On February 26(local time), Minister of National Defense Jeong Kyeong-doo encouraged soldiers while visiting Camp Pendleton (US), where the US 1st Marine Expeditionary Force and the 1st Marine Division are stationed. “I am so proud of the fact that the US Marine Corps could contribute to the Republic of Korea (ROK)-US alliance with the help of our veterans’ activities during the Korean War,” said Lieutenant General Joseph L. Osterman, commander of the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, pledging to continue to strengthen the ROK-US alliance through exchanges and cooperation with the ROK Marine Corps.

Jeong also prepared an event to express his gratitude to the veterans from the 1st Marine Division and the Korean-American veterans who joined the Korean War. In the event co-hosted by the Consulate General of the ROK in Los Angeles, “The people of the ROK will not forget the bravery and sacrifice of the US 1st Marine Division that was shown in the Battle of Jangjinho Lake, as well as its success in the Incheon Landing Operation, against all odds,” Jeong said, expressing his deep gratitude to the veterans who fought in the Korean War on behalf of the people of the ROK. While shaking hands with each one of the US and Korean-American veterans, Jeong pledged to work for the development of a forward-looking ROK-US alliance. He presented Colonel James H Napier in the reserve, son of the late Sergeant James W Napier from the US 1st Marine Division who joined the Korean War, with an “Apostle of Peace Medal.”

By Su-Yeol, Maeng <guns13@dema.mil.kr >
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