This photo taken on Aug. 15, 2016, shows 2nd Infantry Division Commander Theodore D. Martin making a salute to a KATUSA veteran after awarding him a letter of appreciation during the 66th anniversary of KATUSA’s foundation held at Camp Jackson in Uijeongbu, northern Seoul. (Yonhap)
The Korean Augmentation Troops to the U.S. Army (KATUSA) celebrated the 66th anniversary of its foundation Monday, according to the KATUSA Veterans Association.
Some 400 U.S. military officials, KATUSA war veterans, KATUSA reservists and active-duty KATUSA soldiers participated in the event at Camp Jackson, a U.S. military base, in Uijeongbu, north of Seoul.
KATUSA Veterans Association Chairman Kim Jong-wook and 2nd Infantry Division Commander Theodore D. Martin were among the participants. Chairman Kim delivered a welcoming speech following a silent tribute to patriotic martyrs and then Commander Martin as guest speaker gave a keynote speech on the meaning of the 66th anniversary for the two allies.
Commander Martin said KATUSA has operated like a set of well-running wheels for the U.S. and South Korean armies for the past 66 years. He asked KATUSA soldiers to continue their bridging role in strengthening the bilateral alliance.
“Today, the strength of the KATUSA Program serves as a symbol of the friendship and continued commitment between the two countries. This strength is vital, and it enhances our combined ability to deter aggression and maintain peace in the Korean Peninsula,” he said. [Yonhap]
You can read more at the link to include a story about a South Korean family that had three generations serve in the KATUSA program. The KATUSA program has definitely been a success since its founding by General Douglas MacArthur during the Korean War.
