Michael DeSombre, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, delivers congratulatory remarks at the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., on the 73rd anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, July 27 (local time). [Joint Press Corps, Washington] 

Michael DeSombre, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, emphasized the importance of the ROK-U.S. alliance on the 73rd anniversary of the Korean War Armistice on July 27 (local time), stating that the armistice marked the beginning of the alliance.

Attending a ceremony held at the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., on the morning of the same day, Assistant Secretary DeSombre said, "July 27, 1953 (the day the armistice was signed), marked not only the end of hostilities but also the birth of an enduring (ROK-U.S.) alliance forged by our shared sacrifices."

DeSombre stated, "Both countries fought together against communism to defend democracy and freedom on the Korean Peninsula," emphasizing that the sacrifices made by U.S. and South Korean troops during the Korean War serve as a reminder that freedom is not free.

He added, "Our mission today is to ensure we remain prepared to stand side-by-side should the need arise to return to battle, and to protect our prosperity, security, and peace."

DeSombre also became visibly emotional as he shared that his wife's family is from Incheon, remarking, "Had it not been for the sacrifices we made together to defend a free South Korea, I would not have met my wife." Assistant Secretary DeSombre's wife is of Korean descent.

Retired General John Tilelli, former Commander of U.S. Forces Korea and Chairman of the Korean War Veterans Memorial Foundation, who hosted the event, said, "There are still those who question the ROK-U.S. relationship today." He added, "I ask for one thing: that we honor the sacrifices of those who gave their lives (in the Korean War) and ensure this is not considered a 'forgotten war'."

Brigadier General Yoon Hyung-jin of the ROK Army, Defense Attaché at the South Korean Embassy in the U.S., attended the event. He emphasized, "The ROK-U.S. alliance, forged in the trials of battle, is stronger than ever. It is not merely a strategic partnership, but an unbreakable brotherhood forged by blood and shared values."

Brigadier General Yoon Hyung-jin, Defense Attaché at the South Korean Embassy [Washington=Yonhap News]