DAEJON, South Korea - The Eighth Army commanding general described the important role the Republic of Korea-U.S. alliance plays in maintaining security on the Korean Peninsula and stability in the Asia Pacific region here, Sept. 25.
Eighth Army commanding general Lt. Gen. Bernard S. Champoux spoke to students at ROK Army War College command course.
Students in the command course will serve as future leaders of the ROK Army and ROK-U.S. alliance.
"The leadership of this alliance has never been more important than it is now," said Champoux. "Our alliance and our presence here keep this region secure, strong and prosperous."
"The United States is a Pacific nation," said Champoux, who also serves as chief of staff for U.N. Command, Combined Forces Command and U.S. Forces Korea. "At the heart of our military service in the Asia Pacific region is the Korean Peninsula."
The Eighth Army commander said the alliance not only serves as a shield against aggression on the Korean Peninsula but also defends freedom together around the globe.
"We have served together and championed freedom around the world," said Champoux. "We have served together in Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan."
Calling the ROK Army one of the strongest military forces in the world, Champoux thanked the senior ROK Army officers for their commitment to the alliance.
"Your dedication, professionalism and expertise are impressive," said Champoux, a native of Pittsfield, Mass. "Together, we serve in the strongest military alliance in the world."
"We have stood together for the last six decades," said Champoux, "and we are proud to continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you and defend liberty on Freedom's Frontier."