Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

 “Freedom and peace in the Korean Peninsula, thanks to you, reliable soldiers”

80 exemplary soldiers invited from the Korea-U.S. combined forces and the UN forces.

‘Six Star Salute’ held for the soldiers, awarding them Medal of Honor to give encouragement

On the afternoon of April 14th, United Service Organization Korea(USO Korea) held a Six Star Salute at the Grand Hyatt Seoul.

Started from 1970, this year marked the 45th event held for Korean and U.S. citizen representatives to express gratitude and appreciate the exemplary soldiers who have protected the Korean Peninsula for their devotion and dedication. A total of 80 exemplary soldiers were selected, including 39 Korean, US and UN soldiers, and the ‘Six Star’ honor was awarded to all.

Candidates for exemplary soldiers include soldiers and/or noncommissioned officers, rather than commissioned officers and they were given the ‘Six Star’ honor and encouragement, which means they were higher than Five Star rank during the day.

The events were held in order of a special performance, an entrance ceremony of exemplary soldiers, a solo singing performance of the national anthem, a medal awards ceremony, opening address and speeches. After the dinner banquet, there was a special concert featuring ‘Drum Cat’ and a singer Park Sang-min to brighten up the atmosphere.

In his keynote address, Deputy Commander in Chief of the 1st Field Army Jeon In-beom said that those 80 selected soldiers represent all soldiers who protect the peace in Korea, and that this historical event speaks to the unique nature of the Korea-U.S. alliance. He conveyed his celebration and deep appreciation to those Six Star soldiers.

Through the event, Korea and the US reaffirmed their strong alliance and ties, while pledging future security cooperation and co-prosperity.

Meanwhile, USO Korea, a non-profit organization, has provided a wide range of services including performances for soldiers and their families since it was established in 1941. Its main mission is to constantly connect US dispatched soldiers with their family and homes so that they can strengthen their relationships. Since 1951, the organization has offered several welfare and morale promotion programs and voluntary activities for members of the US army in Korea and their families. Especially, this year is the 75th anniversary of the USO Korea's establishment, and marked the 65th year of USO Korea’s working in Korea.

By Seung-Bok, Lee < yhs920@dema.mil.kr >

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