YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea (Nov. 15, 2012) -- A Veterans Day ceremony was held at the Eighth Army War Memorial to recognize the sacrifices of the men and women who have served for the nation and fought in foreign wars, here, Nov. 11.
"They were willing to make an incredible sacrifice for our nation," said Gen. James D. Thurman, commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, and U.S. Forces Korea. "Today we honor our veterans at locations with special meanings to all of us."
The annual event was organized by Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. Pacific Areas District III and attended by service members, families, civilians and retirees of all of the Republic of Korea, or ROK.
"My generation owes those before us," said Sung Kim, U.S. ambassador to Korea. "The U.S.-ROK alliance that we enjoy today is a tribute to all of you by extraordinary, bravery, sacrifice of our veterans. None of this could happen without the courage of veterans. So, on this special day, and every day, we honor our veterans for their contribution."
Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, flew from the U.S. to participate in this event. He also gave remarks, emphasizing once more about the importance of remembering the heroes.
"History teaches us that security doesn't just happen," Dempsey said. "It demands effort, sacrifice, courage, and commitment. It requires generations of men and women and today, our gathering is about serving them, as well as they served."
As the three remarks highlighted the word 'sacrifice,' it is the best word to describe Veterans. America has been celebrating veterans' efforts and dedication since 1926, and by having an annual ceremony, U.S. Forces Korea participated in the nation-wide recognition day.
Toward the end of the event, representatives from different organizations laid floral tributes around the memorial.
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