Announcement

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, James Honea, Joins KDVA Senior Enlisted Council

May 27, 2026 Announcement

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, James Honea, Joins KDVA Senior Enlisted Council

May 27, 2026

Please join the Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) Board of Directors in welcoming Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (Ret.) James Honea as the newest member of the KDVA Senior Enlisted Council.

“We are honored to welcome MCPON (Ret.) James Honea to KDVA’s leadership team,” said General (Ret.) Robert B. “Abe” Abrams, KDVA Chairman and President. “He is a proven leader who has spent his career strengthening teams, building trust, and taking care of Sailors and their Families. His service in Korea and across the Indo-Pacific gave him a deep, personal understanding of the ROK–U.S. Alliance—not just as a mission, but as a relationship built between our people. That perspective is what makes him such a strong addition to our Senior Enlisted Council and to the KDVA team.”

MCPON (Ret.) Honea most recently served as the 16th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, the highest enlisted position in the United States Navy. In that role, he served as the principal enlisted advisor to the Chief of Naval Operations and Secretary of the Navy, representing more than 400,000 Sailors and their families.

Prior to serving as MCPON, Honea held key senior enlisted leadership roles across the Indo-Pacific, including Command Senior Enlisted Leader for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and Command Master Chief of U.S. Naval Forces Korea.

Beyond his distinguished service, Honea brings a deep and personal connection to Korea and the ROK–U.S. Alliance. Reflecting on his time serving alongside Republic of Korea Navy counterparts, he shared in July 2023:

“Some of my most meaningful experiences in uniform were in Korea—serving side by side with our Republic of Korea Navy partners. Those weren’t just professional interactions; they were relationships built on trust, shared purpose, and daily cooperation. That’s what makes our alliance so powerful.

Returning to Busan and reconnecting with both U.S. and ROK Sailors reminded me just how strong that bond remains. We don’t just operate together—we learn from each other, we grow together, and we become better warfighters because of it.

It was an honor to serve there, and it’s a place—and a partnership—I look forward to returning to.”

“I am honored to join KDVA and support its important mission,” said Honea. “The ROK-U.S. Alliance remains one of the most important partnerships in the world, and I look forward to continuing to support the Veterans, Service Members, and Families who have contributed so much to its success.”

Please see his complete biography at https://kdva.vet/leadership/.

KDVA is a 501C(3) non-profit organization registered in Virginia with over 61,000 members and 139,000 social media followers. KDVA is non-political. KDVA was formed to enhance the ROK-U.S. Alliance and support the people who built and serve the Alliance.

Please join KDVA for FREE – anyone interested in Korea and Veterans are welcome!

Visit us at www.kdva.vet, and follow us on Facebook (@kdva.us) and Twitter (@KDVAvets).

KDVA and KUSAF Joint Message for “U.S.-ROK Alliance Memorial Period 2026”

May 22, 2026 Announcement

KDVA and KUSAF Joint Message for “U.S.-ROK Alliance Memorial Period 2026”

May 25 – June 6, 2026

Remembrance is not confined to a single day. It is carried forward — in the values we uphold, the alliances we sustain, and the lives we lead in freedom.

During U.S.–ROK Alliance Memorial Period, we reflect on the men and women of the United States and the Republic of Korea who lost their lives in defense of a cause greater than themselves. Their sacrifice did more than secure a moment in history — it established a foundation for a lasting partnership between our two nations.

The Alliance they helped forge has evolved from shared sacrifice on the battlefield to a steadfast commitment to peace and security. Today, that commitment is visible not only in the Service Members who stand watch together, but also in the generations who continue to carry forward the meaning of their service.

Each life lost represents a story — of duty, of courage, and of devotion to others. Remembering them requires more than reflection; it calls on us to live in a way that honors what they gave. That is why the Korea–U.S. Alliance Foundation (KUSAF) and the Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) designate May 25 to June 6, 2026, as “U.S.–ROK Alliance Memorial Period.”

We invite all Americans and Koreans to join 61,000 KDVA members in observing this time of remembrance in their own way — by visiting a memorial, attending a ceremony, sharing a story … or simply taking a moment to reflect on these days:

• On May 25, U.S. Memorial Day, please pause at 3:00 p.m. EDT.

• On June 6, ROK Memorial Day, a nationwide moment of silence is observed at 10:00 a.m.

Though separated by distance, these moments connect us in common purpose — to remember, to honor, and to remain worthy of the sacrifices made.

“Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance”

Robert B. “Abe” Abrams

President, KDVA President, KUSAF

Leem, Ho Young

General, U.S. Army (Retired) General, ROK Army (Retired)

U.S. Military Spouse Appreciation Day

May 8, 2026 Announcement

U.S. Military Spouse Appreciation Day:

Behind every assignment, every deployment, and every mission in defense of Korea, there is a constant source of strength — our military spouses.

Their support is not always visible, but it is always felt. Through moves, long separations, and the demands of service, spouses provide the stability, encouragement, and resilience that make it possible for our Service Members to serve with focus and purpose.

For those connected to Korea, that commitment often takes on an added dimension. Service on the Korean Peninsula is not just another assignment — it is part of a vital mission that has endured for generations. And alongside those who wear the uniform are spouses who share in that experience, building lives, friendships, and communities … sometimes far from home.

As KDVA continues to grow — now connecting more than 60,000 members worldwide and expanding through Chapters, Campus Clubs, and our first USFK Chapter at Camp Humphreys — we are reminded that this community is strengthened not only by those who served, but also by the families who stand beside them.

To all military spouses of our Korea Veterans and those currently serving in U.S. Forces Korea, we offer our sincere appreciation. Your sacrifices, your strength, and your unwavering support are an essential part of the ROK–U.S. Alliance.

Today is an opportunity to pause and recognize all that you do — but more importantly, it is a reminder that your contributions matter every day.

KDVA is proud to welcome military spouses as part of our community, with membership and programs available at no cost … but priceless in their impact.

Thank you for all that you do and all that you represent.

Steve Lee

Senior Vice President

Korea Defense Veterans Association

KDVA Founding Month in May 2026

May 4, 2026 Announcement

KDVA Founding Month in May 2026

May 1, 2026

Each May, KDVA marks its founding by recognizing the people who give this community its identity — those who served in defense of Korea and those who continue to support and carry that legacy forward. What began as a way to connect Korea Veterans and their supporters has grown into something much larger: a dynamic, expanding movement that reflects the enduring importance of the ROK–U.S. Alliance.

Today, that growth is clear:

More than 60,000 members worldwide
Over 133,000 social media followers
7 U.S. Chapters, with 4 more launching in 2026
5 KDVA Campus Clubs (KCCs) engaging the next generation
The first KDVA USFK Chapter at Camp Humphreys, connecting those currently serving with those who came before them

This is more than growth in numbers — it is a strengthening of the ties that bind our members across generations, geography, and service. For many, service and living in Korea leave a lasting mark. As one member reflected:

“Living in South Korea changed my life, shaping my worldview…”

— Mr. Dave Harris, KDVA Digital Library

That experience — shared by millions — is what continues to drive engagement, connection, and purpose within KDVA today.

We are especially grateful to our fundraising partner, the Korea–U.S. Alliance Foundation (KUSAF), whose support ensures that KDVA membership and programs remain free and accessible to all.

As we look ahead, our focus remains clear: to grow KDVA, to enhance the Alliance, and to ensure that the legacy of service in Korea continues to inspire future generations.

Whether you have been part of KDVA for years or are just joining us, your voice matters — and your continued engagement helps shape what comes next. Thank you for being part of this effort — “Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance.”

KDVA ROK-U.S. Alliance Journal – 2026 1st Edition

April 6, 2026 Announcement, Quarterly Journals

2026 1st Edition

KDVA Launches 1st USFK Chapter at Camp Humphreys

February 6, 2026 Announcement

KDVA is very excited and proud to open its first chapter on a USFK installation as the KDVA Humphreys Chapter. This local chapter allows KDVA to directly support the 28,500 USFK personnel and their families. We are thankful to have this opportunity, and we look forward to opening more chapters on more USFK installations!

The KDVA Humphreys Chapter Launch took place on January 28, 2026, at Riverbend, Camp Humphreys.

The event included welcoming remarks from LTG (Ret.) Yoon Eui-chul, President of KDVA Korea Region, along with an introduction to KDVA by Mr. Tim Miller, President of the Humphreys Chapter.

Guests enjoyed the chance to connect and interact with one another, sharing their experiences and further enhancing the sense of unity and purpose that KDVA embodies. This event heralded the start of an exciting chapter for the organization, laying the groundwork for future initiatives and community engagement throughout U.S. military bases in South Korea.

Happy New Year 2026!

December 31, 2025 Announcement

한미동맹재단 및 주한미군전우회를 응원하고 후원하는 여러분, 새해 복 많이 받으세요
Dear Members of KUSAF and KDVA, Supporters and Sponsors! Happy New Year 2026!

한미동맹은 상호간 이해를 바탕으로 실질적인 협력 관계로 발전해 왔습니다. 한미동맹재단 후원자들과 주한미군전우회 회원들의 참여는 양국 간 대화와 협력이 안정적으로 이어질 수 있는 기반이 되어 왔습니다. 이를 바탕으로 양 기관은 2026년을 맞아 참전용사와 공동체를 지원하는 사업을 확대해 나갈 계획입니다.

Effective partnership within the ROK–U.S. Alliance depends on consistent engagement and broad participation. Through the involvement of KDVA members and the support of KUSAF donors, opportunities for dialogue, connection, and cooperation have been sustained in meaningful and practical ways. Building on this collective effort, we approach 2026 with a focus on collaboration and enhancing the Alliance in ways that directly support Veterans and the communities connected to their service.

2025년 서울과 샌디에이고에서 개최된 한미동맹 컨퍼런스는 한미동맹이 전통적인 안보 협력을 넘어 다양한 분야로 확장되고 있음을 보여주었습니다. 교육, 문화, 과학기술, 경제 교류 등 여러 영역에서 협력을 지원하고, 장기적인 교류를 가능하게 하는 협력 구조를 지속적으로 구축해 왔습니다. 이러한 활동은 한반도와 인도태평양 지역 전반의 안정과 상호 이해 증진에 기여해 왔습니다.

As demonstrated at the 2025 ROK–U.S. Alliance and Veterans Conferences in Seoul and San Diego, the ROK–U.S. Alliance extends beyond a traditional security relationship. It supports cooperation across areas such as education, culture, science, technology, and economic exchange, and provides a constructive framework for ongoing engagement. Through the work of organizations like KDVA and KUSAF, the Alliance remains grounded in people-to-people connections and shared efforts that contribute to stability and mutual understanding on the Korean Peninsula and throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

2025년 한 해 동안 한미동맹재단과 주한미군전우회는 회원, 이사회, 후원자들의 지원 속에 의미 있는 성과를 거두었습니다. 주한미군전우회 회원 수는 5만 5천 명을 넘어섰으며, 디지털 플랫폼 팔로워 수는 12만 2천 명 이상으로 증가했습니다. 이는 복무 장병과 참전용사의 공헌을 기리고 동맹의 가치를 알리는 활동이 지속적으로 확대되어 왔음을 보여줍니다.

In 2025, KUSAF and KDVA achieved meaningful progress thanks to the continued support of our members, donors, board members, advisors, and supporters. KDVA grew to more than 55,000 members and reached over 122,000 followers across its digital platforms – reflecting a growing community committed to honoring service and strengthening Alliance ties.

2026년은 한미 동맹에 많은 기회와 함께 다양한 도전 과제를 가져올 것으로 예상됩니다. 이러한 환경 속에서도 한미동맹재단과 전우회는 한미동맹을 강화하기 위해 긴밀한 협력과 책임 있는 역할을 지속해 나갈 것입니다. 양 기관은 350만 명의 한국전 참전용사와 350만 명의 주한미군 복무 장병의 희생과 공헌을 기리는 프로그램을 지속·확대할 예정입니다. 아울러 미국 독립 250주년을 기념하는 사업을 함께 추진합니다. 여기에는 주한미군 전사자 추모비 제막식 등 양국의 협력과 헌신을 기리는 공식 기념 행사가 포함될 예정입니다.

The Year 2026 is expected to bring both lots of opportunities for the ROK–U.S. Alliance and a range of challenges. In this environment, KUSAF and KDVA will continue to carry out their respective roles through close cooperation to strengthen the Alliance. We will continue working together to expand programs and outreach that recognize and support the sacrifices and contributions of the 3.5 million ROK and U.S. Korean War Veterans and the 3.5 million ROK and U.S. Korea Defense Veterans. Also, in recognition of the upcoming 250^th anniversary of American independence, KUSAF and KDVA plan to collaborate on meaningful initiatives that honor shared history and service. These efforts include commemorative events such as the unveiling of the USFK Fallen Service Members Armistice Memorial, which reflect the enduring bonds between our nations and our commitment to remembering those who served.

여러분의 관심과 사랑, 그리고 지원에 항상 감사드립니다. 여러분과 가정에 건강과 평안이 가득하고, 새해가 행복하고 풍요로운 한 해가 되길 기원합니다.

Thank you always for your continued interest and support! Wishing you and your families a healthy, peaceful, and prosperous New Year.

2026년 1월 1일
1 January 2026

Robert B. “Abe” Abrams
General, U.S. Army (Retired)
President, Korea Defense Veterans Association
로버트 에이브럼스
예비역 육군대장
주한미군전우회 회장

Leem, Ho Young
General, ROK Army (Retired)
President, Korea-US Alliance Foundation
임호영
예비역 육군 대장
한미동맹재단 회장

KDVA ROK-U.S. Alliance Journal – 2025 3rd Edition

November 20, 2025 Announcement, Quarterly Journals

2025 3rd Edition

KDVA Honors American Veterans on U.S. Veterans Day

November 11, 2025 Announcement

KDVA Honors American Veterans on U.S. Veterans Day

November 11, 2025

On U.S. Veterans Day, the Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) proudly honors and thanks all American Veterans who have defended freedom around the world — especially those who served in Korea since the Korean War.

More than 1.8 million Americans fought bravely in Korea from 1950 to 1953, and since the Armistice, over 3.3 million American Service Members have served on the Peninsula to preserve stability and enhance the ROK-U.S. Alliance. Their steadfast service helped transform South Korea into one of the world’s great democracies and one of America’s most vital allies.

As we observe Veterans Day, we reflect on the enduring bond forged in sacrifice and shared values. Those who served in Korea often describe their experience as a life-defining experience — witnessing the growth of a free and prosperous nation that continues to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the United States. Today, that Alliance remains a powerful force for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

On this special day, KDVA encourages everyone to take a moment to remember and thank our Veterans. Please visit a memorial, attend a ceremony, speak with a Veteran about their service, or simply pause to appreciate the freedoms secured through their courage and commitment.

Together, we celebrate their legacy … “Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance!”

Robert B. “Abe” Abrams

General, U.S. Army (Retired)

Chairman & President

Korea Defense Veterans Association

KDVA Message for 2025 U.S. Veterans Day_20251111_Final

KDVA Announces “U.S.-ROK Combined Forces Command Day”

November 7, 2025 Announcement

KDVA Announces “U.S.-ROK Combined Forces Command Day”

KDVA, “한 미 연합군사령부의 날” 제정 발표

November 7, 2025

2025년 11월 7일

The Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) is honored to announce its registration and sponsorship of the “U.S.-ROK Combined Forces Command Day (CFC Day),” recognizing the historic and enduring partnership between the Armed Forces of the United States and the Republic of Korea.

Celebrating Unity in Defense

The U.S.-ROK Combined Forces Command (CFC) is the heart of the U.S.-ROK Alliance. Established on November 7, 1978, CFC stands ready to defend the Republic of Korea against any threats. CFC’s balanced structure enables the highest levels of cooperation, trust, and interoperability between our two militaries. CFC Day honors the men and women, American and Korean, past and present, who have served under the CFC banner to preserve stability on the Korean Peninsula.

“KDVA is proud to honor and support the extraordinary teamwork of American and Korean Service Members who make Combined Forces Command the model of true combined operations and readiness,” said General (Ret.) Robert “Abe” Abrams, former CFC Commander and current KDVA Chairman & President. “In my time in Korea, I was constantly reminded of the need to maintain the highest level of combined readiness to serve as a credible deterrent on the Peninsula and a trusted defender of the Korean people. For me, this observance is a call to every Veteran, every citizen, and every young leader: Strengthen the Alliance. Respect the mission. It’s not just history we protect — it’s the future we defend together.”

Purpose of CFC Day

Honor Service and Sacrifice: Recognize those who have strengthened the ROK–U.S. military partnership through their dedication and teamwork.
Educate and Inspire: Raise awareness about CFC’s mission, history, and role in sustaining deterrence and readiness.
Strengthen Ties: Deepen public understanding of the vital importance of the U.S.–ROK combined defense posture for both nations’ security and prosperity.

A Time of Commemoration

October holds special meaning for the ROK–U.S. security relationship — it is a month filled with commemorations of courage, alliance, and national pride – including KDVA’s sponsorship of “U.S.-ROK Alliance Day” each October 1st on the anniversary of the signing of the U.S.-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty. CFC Day joins this season of remembrance, celebrating the remarkable cooperation between two nations that continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder for freedom.

Please Get Involved

KDVA invites our 44,000+ members, 122,000+ social media followers, donors, sponsors, 40 partners, and supporters to participate in “U.S.–ROK Combined Forces Command Day.”

Join KDVA (for free!) to directly receive event invitations, updates, and member stories and experiences: https://kdva.vet/join-kdva/.
Take the initiative to sponsor local and national observances.
Share your CFC experiences and photos with KDVA to help tell the story of our Alliance in action (contact@kdva.vet).

Purpose of CFC Day

Honor Service and Sacrifice: Recognize those who have strengthened the ROK–U.S. military partnership through their dedication and teamwork.
Educate and Inspire: Raise awareness about CFC’s mission, history, and role in sustaining deterrence and readiness.
Strengthen Ties: Deepen public understanding of the vital importance of the U.S.–ROK combined defense posture for both nations’ security and prosperity.

A Time of Commemoration

October holds special meaning for the ROK–U.S. security relationship — it is a month filled with commemorations of courage, alliance, and national pride – including KDVA’s sponsorship of “U.S.-ROK Alliance Day” each October 1st on the anniversary of the signing of the U.S.-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty. CFC Day joins this season of remembrance, celebrating the remarkable cooperation between two nations that continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder for freedom.

Please Get Involved

KDVA invites our 44,000+ members, 122,000+ social media followers, donors, sponsors, 40 partners, and supporters to participate in “U.S.–ROK Combined Forces Command Day.”

• Join KDVA (for free!) to directly receive event invitations, updates, and member stories and experiences: https://kdva.vet/join-kdva/.

• Take the initiative to sponsor local and national observances.

• Share your CFC experiences and photos with KDVA to help tell the story of our Alliance in action (contact@kdva.vet).

About KDVA

The Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) is a nonpolitical, nonprofit organization that honors and supports the millions who served or are serving the Republic of Korea–United States Alliance. KDVA strengthens Veteran well-being, fosters public awareness of the Alliance, and builds bridges of friendship between the people of both nations. We are a fast-growing organization that welcomes anyone interested in Korea and Veterans – yes, anyone … and yes, for free. Learn more at https://kdva.vet/.

“Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance!”

“한‧미 동맹을 위하여, 함께!”

U.S. Military Spouse Appreciation Day:

Location & Info