3-2 ADA and Republic of Korea's 10th Fighter Wing Commemorate Korean War
by Capt. Christopher J. Clemente

Suwon Air Base, Republic of Korea—In commemoration of the 58th anniversary of the Korean War, the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Air Defense Artillery, and the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) 10th Fighter Wing participated in an annual ceremony, which included a joint march around Suwon Air Base.  The ceremony began with remarks given by the Commanders of 3-2 ADA Battalion, Lt. Col.  Carolyn S. Birchfield and the ROKAF 10th Fighter Wing, Brig. Gen. Choi, Cha Kyu. 

In his remarks, Choi took the opportunity to remind both U.S. and ROK Soldiers of the ceremony’s significance, “It is my wish that today’s ROK-U.S. combined marching ceremony would let us remember the valiant hearts and courage of veterans of the Korean War and further strengthens the friendship between the Republic of Korea and the United States Soldiers who are stationed here at Suwon Air Base.”  

Birchfield also used the time to remind the Soldiers of the “Eagles Dare” Battalion of those brave warriors who came before them to fight for the “Land of the Morning Calm.”

“Today, we commemorate the struggle that brought our two nations together and formed the solemn bond that we still cherish today,” Birchfield noted, “Ceremonies such as this are not only sobering reminders of the lives that were lost in defense of our freedoms, but they also reaffirm our commitment to stand together—side by side—and defend against those who would threaten peace and security.  Our partnership in this mission is bound by a strong mutual respect and admiration for one another that has grown even stronger over the past 58 years.”

 A moment of silence was then observed by the almost one thousand Soldiers gathered at the event.

Following the commanders’ remarks, the Soldiers of 3-2 ADA and those of the 10th FW conducted a symbolic march around Suwon Air Base, the home they now share.

MAJ. Clay Mountcastle, the 3-2 ADA executive office, served as the commander of troops for the ceremony. 

“This was more than just a march,” Mountcastle claimed, “This ceremony helped remind us why we are here.  It was a fitting tribute to the Americans and South Koreans that fought together in the Korean War.”