Scott Garrett: “Today we honor an ally who is standing with us in the Global War on Terrorism. An ally who knows what it is like to…”

“Today we honor an ally who is standing with us in the Global War on Terrorism. An ally who knows what it is like to fight for peace and freedom, South Korea. Just over 50 years ago, Korea was the most violent spot on the planet as the North Korean government, backed by the Soviets and Chinese, swooped in to destroy the fledgling democracy in the south. I am a proud cosponsor of this resolution which recognizes the significant contributions that the South Korean military has made in Afghanistan and in Iraq. Our South Korean allies maintain the third largest contingent of personnel in Iraq, where they are helping each day to rebuild that nation and spread the freedom they too earned with blood, sweat, and grit. While as many as 3,600 personnel have at some time served, currently 2,300 work in the country to provide medical services, build and repair roads, power lines, schools, and other public works. The Republic of Korea has contributed both men and money to rebuilding Iraq because they know how difficult it is to rise from the ashes of war. Since the end of the Korean War, the people of South Korea have built one of the world's most modern and dynamic economies. We hope that the Iraqi and Afghani people can look to the South Korean model to develop into a peaceful and prosperous nation. We thank the Republic of Korea and the Korean people for their sacrifice and their stand for freedom.”