As tensions on the Korean peninsula rise, with the next “milestone” and possibly key event being the imminent launch of a medium range (2,100 miles) missile — possibly multiple missiles is now being reported — by North Korea, and while we are hoping for the best, we should not forget the more than 28,000 US troops based throughout South Korea.
We should also keep in our thoughts the “command-sponsored” families accompanying approximately 4,500 of those troops.
TIME also mentions that “roughly 150,000 Americans” are now in South Korea, most of them within range of the North’s 13,000 artillery tubes.
Should readers want to express their support for and solidarity with these troops and their dependents, that great organization, the USO, is providing just such a venue.
By going to this USO web site you can add your name “to an urgent Pledge of Support that will be displayed at the six USO Centers throughout South Korea which receive more than 14,000 visits every month from troops and their families.”
The USO:
This is your chance to let our troops and their families stationed in the region know that, whatever they confront in the days and weeks ahead, the American people and the USO will be always by their side.
None of us can predict what will happen in the days ahead and all of us hope for an easing of the tension. But, whatever happens, we need to make sure our troops serving in this difficult situation know that they are in our thoughts and prayers.
Image: Courtesy USO
The author is a retired U.S. Air Force officer and a writer.