United States Forces Korea Commander, U.S. Army Gen. Vincent K. Brooks (left) and Deputy Commander, Combined Force Command, Ger. Leem Ho-young (right) watch as U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis signs the guest book at the U.S. Forces Headquarters, U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan, Republic of Korea, Feb. 2, 2017. The importance of the Asia-Pacific region sends a vital message that the U.S. seeks to further enhance collaboration and cooperation in the region and that the U.S. stands firmly with its allies in the face of common threats, such as those posed by North Korea.