SEOUL Aca,!" The Korean American Friendship Association Thanksgiving and Year-end Party for U.S. Forces Korea was held here at the Shilla Hotel Nov. 23 to recognize the contributions of Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines to security on the Korean Peninsula.
The annual KAFA party was held in a sober mood because of North Korea's unprovoked artillery attack on Yeonpyeong Island.
Ten seconds of silence in memory of the victims from the attack was observed.
Brig. Gen. Aundre F. Piggee, deputy assistant chief of staff for logistics with United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command and U.S. Foces Korea, was the guest speaker.
During his remarks, Piggee emphasized the importance of the service members who represent the finest traditions of ROK-U.S. Alliance and their military services.
"Like the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines who served before you to defend the United States and its allies throughout history, you have made your mark and continue to do so in defense of all that is worth defending," said Piggee.
Piggee also thanked KAFA for hosting the party.
"By providing cultural interactions and genuine Korean friendship for the service members, KAFA makes a world of a difference and life-long memories for those who travelled so far to defend this alliance," said Piggee.
Among the leaders at the party were KAFA President Dr. Wang Sang-eun, Korea National Red Cross President Yoo Chong-ha, American Legion National Commander Jimmie Foster and Installation Management Command-Korea Command Sgt. Maj. Ralph J. Rusch.
After the buffet dinner, door prizes consisting of round tickets from Seoul to the U.S., digital cameras, tuna sets and gift certificates were given to the service members.
The party is one of KAFA's most important friendship events.
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