I congratulate the Orange County Korean-U.S. Citizens League on its eleventh anniversary. The League should be proud as it looks back on over a decade of accomplishments. You have long provided a valuable service to Orange County.
This year's theme - "Land of the Free, Home of the Brave" - recognizes the vital contributions of Korean and American veterans of the Korean War. Their heroic service laid the foundation for an alliance that has lasted over 50 years. I have been proud to help strengthen this alliance, in Congress co-chairing the U.S.-Republic of Korea Interparliamentary exchange for the last seven years.
Like the great Colonel Young Oak Kim, the first Asian-American to command a regular U.S. combat battalion in the Korean War, many of you fought bravely and valiantly. Colonel Kim has secured a special place in the annals of U.S. military history for his courageous service, leading a previously inexperienced force to victory at Kuman-mountain, Tabgol, Keumbyung-mountain, and Suahn-mountain. For his bravery, Colonel Kim received many awards from numerous countries. In Congress, I have led the push to have him awarded the Medal of Honor - an honor that he well deserves.
Today, Korean-American veterans, such as yourselves, continue to be vibrant contributors to Orange County. I am continually impressed by the contributions of the Korean-American Community over the years, and for the League, the future looks promising.
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