President Obama holds troop rally at Osan

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Terri Barriere
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  More than 1,500 Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines from throughout the Republic of Korea had the opportunity to hear President Barack Obama speak, for the first time in Korea, at a troop rally here today.

President Obama said the cause for his visit to the ROK was to re-affirm the enduring alliance between the U.S. and Korean governments.

"This is an alliance rooted in sheer sacrifice, common values, mutual interests and a mutual respect," he said. "And as we look to the future, with a shared vision of our alliance in the 21st century, I made it clear America's commitment to the Republic of Korea will never waiver and our alliance has never been stronger."

The president noted that though the initial reason for his visit was business; his trip to the ROK would not be complete without visiting the troops. He had a message to deliver.

"I couldn't come to the Republic of Korea without coming to see you and delivering a simple message," he said. "A message of thanks to you and your families because of all the privileges of serving as president, I have no greater honor than that of serving as commander in chief of the finest military the world has ever known."

He said that through every step of his journey, one truth has been clear, and that's that the security that allows families to live in peace in both Asia and America, the prosperity that allow them to pursue their dreams, the freedoms that we all cherish ... have not been accidents of history.

"It is no exaggeration to say the progress that we see, not just in Korea, are provided by generations of American men and women in uniform, and has transformed the lives of millions of people," said the Hawaii native. "Many people have to wait a lifetime to see the difference they made, but you see the life of your service, and you have only to look around. Like generations before you, you've helped keep the peace ... working with the wonderful people of the Republic of Korea as they forged a reliable alliance."

The president said that backed by our alliance the ROK has become one of America's largest trade partners and its great prosperity and growth are a part of the armed forces legacy.

"Backed by our alliance, the Republic of Korea has taken on a leadership role -- promoting security and stability around the world, in Iraq and Afghanistan, the waters off the horn of Africa and Eurasia, helping prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction - and that makes us all more secure," he said. "And that too, is part of your legacy."

However, that legacy did not come without a price: sacrifice. A price the president said he recognizes few Americans will ever truly be able to understand.

"I want to assure you that every American appreciates what you do," President Obama said. "I say to you today, on behalf of the American people, thank you for your service, we honor your sacrifices and just as you fulfilled your responsibilities to your nation, your nation will fulfill its responsibilities to you."

Before wrapping up his visit to Osan and Korea, President Obama thanked Gen. Walter Sharp, U.S. Forces Korea commander, for working to normalize tours in Korea, a feat he said will also help provide more stability and security in the region.

"This is a day that stands out in history for not only Osan, but the Republic of Korea," said Col. Thomas Deale, 51st Fighter Wing commander. "President Obama made it a point to come to Korea and commend the servicemembers here for what they do best - being ready to fight and win tonight. I am proud to be their commander, and proud to present their accomplishments to our president."