GWACHEON, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea -- The Eighth Army Band participated in a combined concert with the Republic of Korea (ROK) Capital Defense Command (CDC) Band at Gwacheon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea Oct. 15, 2014.
The concert called "Love of Country," which took place at Gwacheon Citizen's Hall, was a U.S.-ROK Joint Military Concert performed to commemorate the 61 year alliance between the two countries.
The bands performed U.S. and Korean songs such as Arirang Rhapsody, Memory, and We Go Together. Hundreds of civilians and soldiers attended to watch the concert.
Eighth Army Deputy Commanding General (Operations) Maj. Gen. Brian J. McKiernan and Capital Defense Commander Lt. Gen. Kim Yong-hyun attended.
During the event, violinist Kim Jong-hoon, tenor Lee Dong-sin, and singer December DK gave special performances.
The ROK--U.S. Alliance began in1950, and the U.S. Army has been stationed in Korea assisting with security in the region every since. This was emphasized by both Maj. Gen. McKiernan and Lt. Gen. Kim during their remarks.
"Certainly there are many reasons for the miracle in Korea, but I'd like to think the last 61 years of unwavering partnership of United States of America and Republic of Korea is one of them." McKiernan said.
Eighth Army band Commander Chief Warrant Officer 3 Joseph W. Paranteau says his team worked hard preparing for the concert and expects the relationship to strengthen between ROK and U.S. bands.
"It's kind of difficult with the Korean band language and American band language barrier, so what I really hope is the bands walk away with a good performance and I'd like the bands to become closer. It's been great to work with Major Shim, I've learned a lot from him." Paranteau said.
ROK Capital Defense Command Band Commander Maj. Shim Hee-seop also believes this event was meaningful for the alliance.
"Through this event, I think we could understand each other and became closer." Shim added.
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