Yongsan recognizes the best KATUSAs

By Cpl. Choi Sung-il (IMCOM)April 26, 2012

Yongsan recognizes the best KATUSAs
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea -- The best Korean Augmentation to the United States Army Soldiers were honored for their outstanding work and service April 18 during a KATUSA U.S. Soldier Friendship Week ceremony at the R&R Bar and Grill.

The 17 KATUSAs who best met their qualifications in terms of physical fitness, marksmanship, board performance and qualitative criteria such as certificate points combined with individual potential evaluation were chosen in their respective units.

"Their service has strengthened the ROK-U.S. Alliance and set an example for other KATUSA Soldiers," said Lt. Col. Park Ju-hyun, commander of ROK Army Support Group. "I also ask the Commanders and Senior NCOs here to please guide your other KATUSA Soldiers to follow the example set by these best KATUSAs and let them keep up the good work they have been showing."

All the awardees were called upon and presented a certificate of appreciation by their unit commanders. Commanders, Command Sergeants Major, 1st Sergeants and fellow Soldiers also congratulated their KATUSAs.

Garrison Commander Col. William Huber thanked the awardees for their outstanding contribution.

"It's an honor to be a KATUSA and it's a phenomenal honor to be the best KATUSA," said Huber. "These KATUSAs make extraordinary sacrifices for the citizens of the Republic of Korea and the United States of America and leave as ambassadors after two years of service."

The KATUSA program was initiated in 1950 during the Korean War, providing greater Military functionality and maneuverability to U.S. Soldiers. ROK Servicemembers and KATUSA Soldiers have been working alongside U.S. Army Soldiers for 60 years and represent a firm ROK-U.S. Alliance.