Photo By Staff Sgt. Joy Pariante | South Korea's Zaytun Division salutes during their end of mission ceremony in Irbil...... read more read more
By Staff Sgt. Joy Pariante
13th Public Affairs Detachment
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq - South Korea's Zaytun Division, which has been operating in Irbil since 2004, bid farewell to its Iraqi and coalition counterparts during an end of mission ceremony Dec. 1.
The division has been a presence in the northern region of Iraq for the last four years focusing efforts on rebuilding the area and creating a better quality of life for the Kurdish controlled region. "The Zaytun Division, since its arrival in 2004, has set the standard for reconstruction efforts in Iraq and it serves as the example of what is achievable in the rest of the country," said Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, commanding general, Multi-National Corps – Iraq.
The extensive list of Zaytun's achievements include providing medical care for more than 89,000 Iraqis, including 25 children who were brought to South Korea for specialty surgeries, conducting 445 literacy classes graduating 6,245 students and donating 15,000 medical items to clinics in Irbil. "The Koreans have steadfastly provided the people of northern Iraq with the tools they need to lead peaceful and productive lives," Austin said.
Operation Iraqi Freedom isn't the first time South Korean forces have joined the United States on the battlefield. During Vietnam and the Korean War, South Korea stood side by side with American troops to fight for democracy and basic human rights, said Vice Admiral Kim Joong-Ryun, vice chairman, Republic of Korea Joint Chiefs of Staff. "The RoK/U.S. alliance has always been most steadfast and exemplary," he said. "We will join hands again at another time in another location to protect the values we all stand for."
South Korea's contribution of socioeconomic development, humanitarian assistance and, most importantly, friendship building in the Irbil area will not soon be forgotten. "You have been dedicated trainers, mentors, partners and friends to the Iraqi people in this vital region of Iraq," Austin said.
"Through our contributions, we have strived to become members of the local community and true friends," said Maj. Gen. Park Sun-Woo, commanding general, Zaytun Division. Park said that although Korean forces are leaving the area, they continue to wish for peace and prosperity in Iraq.
"We leave with great assurance of a bright future in Irbil and in Iraq," Kim said.
| Date Taken: | 12.02.2008 |
| Date Posted: | 12.02.2008 00:30 |
| Story ID: | 27056 |
| Location: | BAGHDAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 493 |
| Downloads: | 257 |
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