General LaPorte, Seoul’s Newest Citizen
Departing USFK Commanding General Leon LaPorte is now a citizen of Nomads favorite city:
U.S. Forces Korea commander Gen. Leon J. LaPorte was given honorary citizenship to South Korea’s capital city Thursday in a ceremony to honor the four-star general before he leaves as America’s longest-serving military leader here since the Korean War.
During his remarks, LaPorte jokingly asked whether he would have to pay taxes as a Seoul citizen. The crowd of U.S. military leaders and city hall officials quietly laughed.
“If I had to pay taxes, it would be my honor,†LaPorte said seriously. “It’s such a great city.â€
LaPorte and his wife, Judy, have lived on Yongsan Garrison in Seoul for almost four years. LaPorte is leaving South Korea on Feb. 3 and plans to retire from the military after almost 38 years with the Army. He and his wife plan to move to Texas.
