CAMP HUMPHREYS, Republic of Korea -- The 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division hosted a ribbon-cutting, dedication ceremony to officially open the new headquarters Nov. 20.
The ceremony signified the completion of the long-awaited 2ID/RUCD transition from its former 53-year home on Camp Red Cloud to its new facility on Camp Humphreys. The unit also honored the late Warriors, Maj. Gen. Walter M. Robertson and Maj. Gen. Paul L. Freeman Jr., in which the parade field and headquarters were named after respectively.
In opening remarks, Col. (retired) William M. Alexander, Barnesville, Georgia native and 2nd Infantry Division Museum director, highlighted milestones throughout the 101-year Warrior Division history starting in Bourmont, France.
"We honor two great Warriors of the division today," said Alexander. "Maj. Gen. Walter M. Robertson assumed command of the 2nd Infantry Division at the beginning of World War II and remained in command through the entire war."
Maj. Gen. D. Scott McKean, San Jose, California native, commanding general, 2ID/RUCD, and Command Sgt. Maj. Phil K. Barretto, Aiea, Hawaii native, 2ID/RUCD sergeant major unveiled the Robertson Field plaque, commemorating the division's relocation to Camp Humphreys.
"Last month we bid farewell to Uijeongbu and Camp Red Cloud where so much of our story was written," said McKean.
Like on Camp Red Cloud, the new headquarters was named in honor of the late Gen. Paul L. Freeman Jr., former commander, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2ID whose regiment had the first major U.S. Army victory over Chinese Communist Forces during the Korean War.
"The opening of Freeman Hall represents another milestone in the development of the ROK-U.S alliance," said McKean. "It's truly our honor to occupy this headquarters and continue our mission here in Pyeongtaek."
McKean along with Barretto invited distinguished guests to cut the ceremonial ribbon, officially opening Freeman Hall.
"As we begin our new chapter here, let there be no doubt, we will continue to be steadfast and ready in our responsibilities to defend the Republic of Korea," said McKean. "We will continue to be second to none!"
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