LAS VEGAS — Demonstrating enduring gratitude and community solidarity, the Korean American community in Las Vegas marked this year’s Veterans Day by paying heartfelt tribute to local veterans, particularly those who served in the Korean War.

On November 10, the Las Vegas Korean American Association (President Alex Kim) and the Las Vegas Korean American Veterans Association (President Jeong Han-su) teamed up to host a special outreach event at the Nevada State Veterans Home in Boulder City. The home currently houses 175 veterans—including 15 Korean War veterans—alongside 85 dedicated staff members.

The heartwarming gathering aimed to honor the sacrifices of those who served while strengthening ties between the Korean American community and American veterans. The program commenced with a welcoming address by President Jeong, followed by congratulatory remarks from Kim Jung-min, Patriots and Veterans Affairs attaché at the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Los Angeles, and Association President Alex Kim, both of whom expressed profound respect and appreciation for the veterans' service.

Festivities included musical performances by Jeffrey Kim and John Rhee, who delighted the audience with classic pop favorites. Additionally, traditional Korean dancers captivated attendees with a vibrant cultural showcase, bridging generations and bridging cultures through music and dance.

A highlight of the event was a traditional Korean barbecue luncheon. Angela Mitchell, president of the Talent Donation Association, alongside her board members, Open Bank branch managers, and local volunteers, prepared and served the meal, offering veterans a genuine taste of Korean hospitality and culture. Jo Kwang-se, president of the Federation of Korean Senior Citizens Associations in America, added to the spirit of giving by donating two boxes of face masks to the facility.

The organizing bodies expressed their deep appreciation to the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Los Angeles for its sponsorship, as well as to local sponsors and partner businesses, including Kim Myung-seob, Seo Mi-sun, Yoon Pharmacy, Jang Jung-sook, Manpo Myeonok, Angela Kim, Lapidor Bakery, Rainbow Painting, Jenny Fashion, OK Chicken, and Min K Cosmetics.

Continuing their commemoration, representatives from both organizations participated in the annual Veterans Day Parade in downtown Las Vegas on November 11. They were joined by prominent figures including retired Colonel Kim Young-sang, a Vietnam War veteran, and Jang Sang-il, former president of the Vietnam Veterans Association, proudly representing the Korean American community and honoring America’s armed forces.

Local organizers noted that the multi-day tribute served as more than just a volunteer visit. It stood as a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond and alliance between South Korea and the United States, cementing the Korean American community's active role in fostering meaningful grassroots diplomacy and preserving the legacy of freedom for future generations.

https://www.us-knews.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=4480 

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]