Area IV KATUSA ball honors 11 exemplary soldiers

Photo By Sgt. Dong-weon Kim | Pictured, from left to right, are 1st Sgt. Danny Morales, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command first sergeant, Sgt. Kim Min-chan, 19th ESC RSG senior Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army, Cpl. Ahn Chi-heon, HHC, 19th ESC training administrator specialist, and Capt. Peter C. Mueller, HHC 19th ESC company commander.  

27, SOUTH KOREA

12.18.2013

Story by Cpl. Dong-weon Kim 

19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command

DAEGU, South Korea - The 2013 Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army Ball recognized and honored 11 notable soldiers from the 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command and its subordinate units. The 11 KATUSAs recommended by the Area IV Republic Of Korea Army Support Group have been awarded for their high leadership skills, exemplary professionalism and selfless service Dec. 18 at Camp Henry.

The KATUSA Veterans Association hosted its annual KATUSA Ball in Daegu with the cooperation from the 19th ESC.

KATUSAs are crucial contributors to the ROK – U.S. alliance, who facilitate communications fostering defense readiness in the Korean peninsula. The KATUSA Ball encouraged these outstanding young leaders to grow and prosper as prominent leaders. Awardees were also infusing pride to their junior KATUSA soldiers as they were proudly standing before them as respectful role models.

The KVA holds a variety of programs that boosts solidarity and cohesion among the ROKA and the U.S. Army. Additionally, the KATUSA Ball, a nation-wide commemoration is a meaningful event that enhances the mutual relationships between the two countries.

“Today, the KATUSA members in Daegu area prepared this event for getting together in order to end up this year and make the beginning in the New Year,” said Mr. Kim Jong-uk, president of the KVA. “Contributing to the ROK-U.S. military reinforcement, we would like to give their precious love and support to the KATUSA soldiers and U.S. Army.”

Speeches from Brig. Gen. Stephen E. Farmen, 19th ESC commanding general, Lt. Col. Koo Sung-joon, Area IV RSG commander, were followed by the precious words from the KVA president. Farmen was glad to share complimentary remarks to the distinguished KATUSAs

“Your willingness to do your best and taking pride as military ambassadors for mutual relations makes it easy for each of us to establish an atmosphere where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, and we stand ready to fight tonight!” Farmen said.

After the final speeches were concluded from the senior commanders and KVA affiliates, Seok Jung-rae, KATUSA war veteran, was introduced to the center stage. As he was approaching the podium, everyone in the room stood up from their chairs and made powerful acclamations to the living legend.

The war hero’s appearance at the ball conquered the atmosphere with respect and jubilation. His wrinkles around his shining eyes represented his brave efforts that have preserved the freedom of the Republic of Korea.

Soon after, the awards were presented to the 11 KATUSAs who have performed their utmost excellence. Their commitment and dedication have nurtured the mutual relations between the U.S. Army and KATUSA soldiers.

Awardees assembled in front of the attendees and saluted to them, gaining dynamic applauses and cheers from the audience. Proud of their extraordinary achievements, KATUSAs exclaimed “Dan-geul.” (‘Unity,’ KATUSA salute motto.)

“It is an honor for me to be awarded on behalf of the 19th ESC at this event,” said Cpl. Ahn Chi-heon, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 19th ESC Training administrator specialist. “I will accomplish my assigned duties with responsibility as a representative of KATUSAs.”

The KATUSA ball concluded with a strong sense of military partnership between KATUSA soldiers, KATUSA veterans, and U.S. soldiers as they shared not only a feast, but an everlasting friendship that has bridged the cultural gap between these nations for decades.

KATUSAs have always been a proud troop of the military, especially for their perpetual efforts and diligence in establishing steadfast teamwork. During this day, the Korean national flag patch that the KATUSAs have on their right shoulder shined brighter than any other day, reflecting great credits to fellow KATUSA soldiers, the KATUSA veterans and the 19th ESC.

• Date Taken: 12.18.2013
• Date Posted: 02.11.2014 02:00
• Story ID: 120431
• Location: 27, KR