Good morning, distinguished leaders, fellow warriors, veterans, and friends.

It is an honor to stand here today with the Republic of Korea Marine Corps to commemorate the recapture of Seoul. On behalf of United Nations Command, ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Command, and United States Forces Korea, I extend my gratitude, and to the ROK Marines of today and the veterans of yesterday who embody courage and sacrifice on this Peninsula.

The recapture of Seoul reminds us that victories are not won alone. They are won together. Then, as now, the ROK-U.S. alliance stood as a shield for freedom. That alliance remains ironclad today… an alliance forged in sacrifice, tested in battle, and strengthened over seven decades of shared service.

So today, we honor those who fought and fell in the streets of Seoul. We honor the Marines, Republic of Korea and United States, who wrote that chapter of history in blood and courage. And we recommit ourselves to the promise they secured: that freedom in Korea shall not perish, that this alliance shall never waver, and that peace will be preserved.

Thank you. May God bless the Republic of Korea, the United States of America, and all who serve in defense of freedom.

Katchi Kapshida, We Go Together!