Gen. Curtis M. Scaparrotti, United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, U.S. Forces Korea commander and Gen. Lee Soon-Jin, Republic of Korea, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff visit with ROK and US soldiers at the Joint Security Area Feb 6, 2016. The Republic of Korea -U.S. Alliance maintains a truly combined force. We have effective consultative mechanisms, allowing for a whole-of-government approach. This allows us to remain vigilant and maintain a strong deterrence. A high degree of readiness is essential to deterring provocations.