U.S. Rep. Ted Yoho, R-Fla., the chairman of the U.S. House Asia and the Pacific Subcommittee, joined Cho Yoon-je, the South Korean ambassador to the U.S., to honor Korean War veterans on Monday at Camp Blanding in North Florida.
Cho presented the “Ambassador for Peace” medal, which was made from barbed wire from the DMZ dividing North Korea and South Korea, to the veterans. Each of the gold-plated medals read “You will always be our hero."
“It is an honor and a privilege to be here today as part of this ceremony,” Yoho said when he addressed the crowd. “There simply is not enough that we can do for our veterans and today is no exception. It is truly moving to have the Republic of Korea recognize the service and sacrifice of American service men and women who have helped realize the freedoms and liberties experienced today in S. Korea.
“One quick look at satellite images tell the story where one can see the difference between a thriving South Korea lit up at night against the stark darkness of North Korea and their oppressive regime. While today we are exceptionally hopeful for reunification on the Korean peninsula, we are ever mindful of the service of those who fought during the Korean War. Thank you for your service," Yoho added.
Cho read a formal proclamation from his government.
“It is a great honor and pleasure to express the everlasting gratitude of the Republic of Korea and our people for the service you and your countrymen have performed in restoring and preserving our freedom and democracy,” the proclamation reads. “We cherish in our hearts the memory of your boundless sacrifices in helping us reestablish our free nation. In grateful recognition of your dedicated contributions, it is our privilege to proclaim you an “Ambassador for Peace” with every good wish of the people of the Republic of Korea. Let each of us reaffirm our mutual respect and friendship that they may endure for generations to come.”
