Good afternoon. Distinguished guests, veterans, community leaders, and friends of the ROK-U.S. Alliance. On behalf of General Xavier Brunson, I am Brigadier General Jin H. Pak, the Commanding General of 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command.
It is a distinct honor to be here today as we pay tribute to a monumental figure in our shared history, General Paik Sun-yup.
In the summer of 1950, the fate of the Republic of Korea rested on the defense of the Pusan Perimeter. General Paik’s resolute leadership at Dabu-dong proved that even in the face of overwhelming odds, steadfast courage can turn the tide.
But his victory was not just a military triumph. It was the crucible in which the ROK-U.S. Alliance was truly forged. He fought alongside with American forces, demonstrating that our partnership is built on shared sacrifice and mutual trust.
As the Commander of the 19th ESC, I am reminded that the peace we support and sustain today was secured by the sheer grit and determination of leaders like General Paik.
The freedom we enjoy, and the military readiness we maintain across the peninsula, exist upon the foundation he fought so fiercely to establish.
General Paik’s legacy is not just a chapter in a history book. It is a living mandate for all of us in uniform today. We will carry forward his profound dedication to this Alliance. Standing as one, we will continue to protect the peace and shared values he fought so hard to secure.
We go together. Katchi Kapshida! (같이 갑시다!)