Combined Forces Command commander Gen. Leon J. LaPorte stands with Korean Gen. Lee Hee-won Monday during a ceremony markiing the 27th anniversary of the command. (Teri Weaver / S&S)
Combined Forces Command commander Gen. Leon J. LaPorte stands with Korean Gen. Lee Hee-won Monday during a ceremony markiing the 27th anniversary of the command. (Teri Weaver / S&S)
U.S. servicemembers stand at attention during the National Anthem at Monday’s ceremony on Yongsan Garrison. (Teri Weaver / S&S)
The 8th U.S. Army Band performs Monday at Yongsan Garrison during a ceremony celebrating the 27th anniversary of the Combined Forces Command. (Teri Weaver / S&S)
Gen. Leon J. LaPorte gives remarks Monday recognizing the 27th anniversary of the command. "Everyday our servicemembers keep faith with each other," LaPorte said. "They are the true peace keepers." (Teri Weaver / S&S)
YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea — Calling the relationship between the U.S. and South Korea the “world’s most powerful combined headquarters,” Gen. Leon J. LaPorte and other military leaders from both nations on Monday celebrated the 27th anniversary of the Combined Forces Command.
“What an honor it is to be standing among you,” said LaPorte, the commander of U.S. Forces Korea and the combined command, in his final CFC anniversary ceremony in South Korea.
LaPorte, who became the 10th combined commander in May 2002, is slated to leave South Korea after extending his tour here twice.
The combined command was formed in 1978 to enhance both countries’ combat readiness. Each year, American and South Korean servicemembers train together in two major exercises — Ulchi Focus Lens and RSOI (Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration) — to prepare in case of war.
On Monday, LaPorte thanked South Korean and American servicemembers for their work during these exercises, but he also noted the shifting roles for each nation during his tenure.
He commended South Korea for enhancing its military strength as the U.S. decreases its peninsula troop strength by about a third.
Currently, the U.S. has about 32,500 troops here.
He noted that six of 10 ongoing military missions have transferred from the U.S. to South Korea, and the remaining missions are scheduled for transition this year.
LaPorte’s work with the combined command has meant both militaries’ force readiness is “better than any other time,” according to a letter from Korean President Roh Moo-hyun that was read during Monday’s ceremony.
LaPorte credited this to the “friendship and alliance” between the rank-and-file of each nation.
“Every day, our servicemembers keep faith with each other,” he said. “They are the true peacekeepers.”
