From November 14 to 17, South Korea’s 2024 Joint Cruise Training Task Group visited Guam, a U.S. territory, engaging in military and cultural diplomacy activities. This year’s training included participation from over 700 second-year cadets from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Korea Armed Forces Nursing Academies.
During their visit, the cadets toured U.S. naval and air bases in Guam to broaden their international perspective and paid tribute at the Korean War Veterans Memorial. They also participated in various cultural exchange activities, such as serving as guest teachers at a Korean language school.
On the first day of their visit, the cadets visited major U.S. military installations, including the Guam Naval Base, the Naval Hospital, and Andersen Air Force Base, strengthening the friendship between the two countries and reaffirming the solid U.S.-South Korea alliance.
On the second day, they honored veterans’ sacrifices and values by paying their respects and laying flowers at the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Skinner Plaza.
Additionally, the task group held an onboard reception on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship Marado (LPH), where they interacted with Korean War veterans and members of the local Korean community.
On Saturday, cadets visited a Korean language school in Tamuning, Guam, where they served as guest teachers. They introduced 70 local students, including children of Korean expatriates and locals interested in Korean culture, to the different military branches and life at South Korea’s service academies. The cadets also assisted as teaching aides in Korean language classes, creating meaningful memories with the students.
Kim Yeon Soo, a representative cadet from the Korea Naval Academy, expressed, “It was meaningful to honor the veterans who made South Korea possible. This experience renewed my commitment to become an elite officer.”
Brigadier General Kim Hak Min, commander of the Joint Cruise Training Task Group, emphasized, “For the cadets to meet veterans in person, remember the value of their sacrifices, and convey respect and gratitude will serve as vital nourishment for their growth into guardians of South Korea’s armed forces. I will concentrate my leadership on ensuring that the remaining training period fosters joint-mindedness and a solid national outlook among the cadets.”
After departing Guam, the Joint Cruise Training Task Group is scheduled to visit the Ieodo Ocean Research Station on November 22. Cadets will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of safeguarding maritime sovereignty. The task group will return to its home base in Jinhae, South Korea, on November 23.
Comments0