From My Service in Korea, I learned…
CMSgt (Ret.) Ron Eubanks
What I learned from my eight years in Korea would fill volumes, but I will touch on just a few highlights. I learned what it’s like for a fearless and industrious population to live only 35 miles from a constant, and serious, military threat while going about their daily lives. I learned that Korean people appear to be a bit abrupt and discourteous initially, but once they get to know you, they are in fact, a most kind and gregarious people. I learned just how different customs and courtesies are in Korea from those in the United States. I also learned just how much the Korean people know about the U.S. and how little most Americans know about Korea (myself included initially). I learned that American military personnel, far from home, can frequently misjudge the people and environment without really getting beyond what they see just outside the gates of a military installation. Likewise, I learned that many Koreans misjudge the actions of a few “ugly” Americans as being the norm. I learned, from working with the ROK military, just how disciplined and patriotic the Korean military really is and how mutual respect is earned by working closely with each other towards a common goal. As an Intelligence Analyst, I learned what it was like to work within the highest levels of military and civilian leadership during some significant incidents that occurred during my tenure: August 1976 nK axe murders in the JSA area, the Russian downing of KAL 007, the assassination of President Park Chung Hee and the ensuing power struggle. I learned that applying myself to become an expert on nK Psychological Warfare brought great rewards: being selected to write the CINC’s briefing points for President Reagan’s visit, and ultimately ascending to the pinnacle of my military career ladder (CMSgt/E-9). But, everything I learned about Korea pales in comparison to my having met and married my wife of now 42 years and our wonderful daughter being born in the 121 hospital at Yongsan. Obviously, my time in Korea had a significant impact on my life both professionally and personally. It has been many years since we last visited Korea, but our bonds with the country and the Korean people can never be broken.
Ron Eubanks
CMSgt, USAF (Ret)
Sharing your experiences from serving in Korea can be a powerful way to connect with others who have had similar experiences. By sharing your story, you may be able to help others who are currently serving in Korea or who are preparing to do so. You can share insights about the culture, the people, and the challenges you faced while serving. Your story can also help to shed light on the sacrifices that service members and their families make in order to protect our freedoms. So, if you have a story to share, we encourage you to take the time to put it down in writing and send it to KDVA.MyServiceInKorea@gmail.com along with any photos that help to tell your story.
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