New USFK Commander Promises to Strengthen the South Korea-US Alliance
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Seoul, Dec 20 (NationPress) General Xavier Brunson has officially taken on the role of the new commander of US Forces Korea (USFK) as of Friday, emphasizing a steadfast commitment to reinforcing the South Korea-US alliance amidst ongoing challenges posed by North Korea.
Brunson succeeded General Paul LaCamera to oversee the 28,500 American troops stationed in South Korea during a change-of-command ceremony conducted at Camp Humphreys, located 70 kilometers south of Seoul. The event was attended by high-ranking officials from both nations, including acting Defence Minister Kim Seon-ho and Admiral Samuel Paparo, the Commander of US Indo-Pacific Command.
In addition to his role as USFK commander, Brunson also holds the position of Commander of the South Korea-US Combined Forces Command (CFC) and the UN Command.
He highlighted the significance of the alliance and the necessity for cooperation within the broader international community to ensure collective security and a rules-based international order in addressing potential threats.
During his speech, the new commander referenced a Bible verse: "One may be overpowered. Two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
"This reflects the strength of our alliance, the unity of our trilateral partnerships, and the resilience of our multinational coalition. Together, we are stronger and more capable of facing any challenge," he stated, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
General LaCamera, who is retiring after nearly 44 years of service, expressed how South Korea, regarded as a beacon of freedom and prosperity, holds a special place in his heart.
He expressed gratitude towards the CFC for its efforts to maintain readiness during his over three years of service in South Korea and urged the command to continue this dedication under Brunson's leadership.
"Readiness is perishable ... Continue training daily. Stay vigilant and ensure that 'fight tonight' is not just a slogan," he advised, referring to the command's motto promoting combined readiness.
Paparo echoed the sentiment, asserting that Brunson is the "right leader" to advance the command at such a critical juncture for security.
"Considering the precarious security landscape, marked by North Korea's increasingly aggressive actions and our adversaries, including the PRC and Russia, the troops must be prepared to engage immediately," he remarked, using China’s formal name.
"You are the right leader for this demanding assignment," he added, affirming that the South Korea-US alliance remains steadfast.
Kim, the acting defense chief of Seoul, expressed gratitude to LaCamera for his contributions towards strengthening the allies' combined defense stance and implementing the Washington Declaration through military initiatives.
He expressed optimism that the alliance, which has withstood various challenges over the last seven decades, will continue to flourish under Brunson's command.
"The ROK-US alliance, built on unwavering trust, will not falter in the face of any challenges," Kim stated. "I am confident that the spirit of 'We go together' will persist not only between our nations but also through General Brunson."
