Announcement

이러한전쟁과참전용사들의희생을바탕으로이어져온한미동맹은지난70 여년간약330 만명의 주한미군이대한민국에주문하며전쟁을억제하고, 한국의경제발전과민주주의점착을위해 헌신해왔습니다. 그기간동안에도북한의지속적인적대행위로인해103명의소중한생명이 희생되었습니다. 한미양국은베트남, 아프가니스탄, 이라크등지에서도함께피를흘리며싸워 왔습니다. 이처럼한미동맹은공동의희생과헌신을바탕으로오늘날까지굳건히이어지고있습니다.

As we mark this historic milestone, KUSAF and KDVA reaffirm our shared efforts to remember and support our Veterans, to educate future generations about the meaning of the Korean War, and to strengthen the bonds between our two nations. We hope this meaningful day serves as an opportunity for the people of both the Republic of Korea and the United States to reflect o nthe solemn truth that “freedom is not free.” to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening the ROK-U.S. Alliance, and to uphold the values of freedom and democracy. Please join us ni this noble work (membership is always free!) at KDVA.vet.

이역사적인이정표를기념하며, 한미동맹재단과주한미군전우회는참전용사를기억하고직원하며, 미 래 세 대 에 게 한 국 전 쟁 의 의 미 를 알 리 고, 양 국 간 유 대 감 을 더 욱 강 화 하 기 위 한 공 동 의 노 력 을 다시금확인합니다. 한미양국국민모두가”자유는결코공짜가아니다.”라는숭고한교훈을 되새기며, 한미동맹을굳건히하고자유민주주의를수호하려는의지를다지는뜻깊은날이되기를 대합니다. 주한미군전우회홈페이지를방문하셔서이고귀한여정에함께해주시기바랍니다.
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( 회원 가입은언제나 무료입니다!)
“Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance” 함께해요 한미동맹!

KUSAF and KDVA Joint Message for 75th Korean War Anniversary_Final_20250623

KDVA Introduces the 1^st KDVA Campus Club of 2025 in Korea

The Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) is very excited to announce the 1^st Campus Club of 2025 in Korea. KDVA Campus Club at Pyeongtaek University located in Pyeongtaek, South Korea. The KDVA Campus Club (KCC) is led by Club President Kim Jun, with support from Professor Han Ki-jung, Faculty Advisor.

The Pyeongtaek University KDVA Campus Club (PTU KCC) is excited to bring together students with common interests to increase awareness and advocacy of the ROK-U.S. Alliance and our Veterans. With the support of KDVA, they will host Meet and Greets, Webinars, Conferences, Korean Cultural Experiences, and more.

Club President, Kim Jun said, “I’m truly excited and honored to take the first step of KCC together with our students in PTU. KCC was founded out of a shared love for Korean culture and a desire to share it with others.

Through topics like food, music, traditions, and language, we hope to learn from one another, connect, and create meaningful and enjoyable experiences.

I hope our small community becomes a space where hearts are connected through culture, and where greater understanding and friendship can grow. Thank you sincerely to everyone who has supported the launch of KCC — we look forward to this journey with you!”

Professor Han Ki-jung said, “I believe the PTU KCC will play a small but meaningful role in enhancing cultural understanding between Korea and the United States and in further strengthening the robust alliance between our two nations. Culture serves as the foundation of diplomacy, and each of your efforts will be a valuable step toward expanding the grassroots of the ROK-U.S. Alliance.”

The Pyeongtaek KCC will hold its Launch Meet & Greet on, Monday, June 23 at 2:00 PM, Lecture Hall, 2nd Floor, Munmu-Gwan, Pyeongtaek University. Whether you are a KDVA member or not, you are invited – for free!

KDVA Campus Clubs are on college campuses in the United States and Korea. KCCs support KDVA’s mission of enhancing and supporting the ROK-U.S. Alliance and our Veterans on college campuses. Anyone can start a KCC and run the Campus Club as its President. KDVA HQ provides all the funds, social media support, and senior Alliance leaders to participate in person or by Zoom. You just need to register the KCC at your school and come up with ideas for activities and events.

If you’re interested in learning more about starting a KDVA Campus Club at your school, please contact KDVA Campus Club Coordinator Ambrie Jones at ambrie.kdva@gmail.com.  And join KDVA for free, yes for free, at kdva.vet/join-kdva.

June 10, 2025

KDVA Celebrates 81^st Eighth Army Founding Day on June 10, 2025

The Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) proudly honors the U.S. Eighth Army on the occasion of its 81^st Founding Day.

Since June 10, 1944, the Eighth Army has stood as a powerful symbol of strength and resolve, beginning in the Pacific during World War II and continuing today on the Korean Peninsula. Millions of U.S. Soldiers and KATUSAs (Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army) have served together under the Eighth Army’s banner — fighting in the Korean War, defending the Republic of Korea, and protecting the security of Northeast Asia.

Today, the Eighth Army remains a dynamic force in the defense of South Korea and a cornerstone of the ROK-U.S. Alliance. As a former Commander of United Nations Command, ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Command, and U.S. Forces Korea, I am very proud of the U.S. Army’s longstanding commitment and strength in this part of the world that is vital to America’s national interests.

KDVA’s mission is to support the ROK-U.S. Alliance and honor our Veterans. Recognizing and standing with the Eighth Army are essential to fulfilling this mission. We encourage our members, supporters, and all who value peace and security on the Korean Peninsula to join KDVA in thanking our Soldiers.

We are, “Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance”!

Robert B. “Abe” Abrams

General, U.S. Army (Retired)

Chairman & President

Korea Defense Veterans Association

KDVA membership is free at https://kdva.vet/join-kdva.

Inaugural Message from New KDVA Chairman and President

General (Ret.) Robert B. “Abe” Abrams

June 1, 2025

신임 KDVA 회장 겸 이사장 취임사

로버트 “에이브” 에이브럼스 미 육군 예비역 대장
2025년 6월 1일

Dear KDVA Members, Friends, and Supporters,

KDVA의 회원, 지지자, 후원자 여러분,

I am truly honored to step into the role of KDVA Chairman and President. As I begin this new chapter, I do so with great respect for the legacy of leadership that has brought KDVA to where it stands today, especially the dedicated service of General (Ret.) Mike Scaparrotti. I thank him for his leadership and friendship, and I am grateful that he will continue to serve KDVA as a trusted Advisor.

KDVA 회장 겸 이사장으로서 새로운 소임을 다하게 되어 영광스럽게 생각합니다. 저는 이 새로운 여정을 시작하며 KDVA를 오늘의 위상으로 이끈 리더십, 마이크 스카파로티 예비역 대장의 헌신적인 봉사에 깊은 존경을 표합니다. 오래도록 기억될 리더십과 우정에 감사드리며, 앞으로도 신뢰받는 고문으로서 KDVA에 계속 기여해주실 것에 진심으로 감사의 마음을 전합니다.

KDVA is a unique and powerful organization. We are a community bound by shared experiences and a common mission: to honor those who have served in Korea and to enhance the enduring ROK-U.S. Alliance. From my time as Commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, and U.S. Forces Korea, I saw firsthand the strength of this Alliance. I’ve walked along the DMZ, stood shoulder to shoulder with Korean and American troops, and witnessed the extraordinary commitment of Veterans who defended freedom and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

KDVA는 독특하고 강력한 조직입니다. 우리는 한국에서 복무한 이들을 기리고 공고한 한미동맹을 강화한다는 공동의 사명을 중심으로 연결된 공동체입니다. 유엔군사령부, 연합사령부, 주한미군의 사령관으로 근무하던 시절 이 동맹의 힘을 몸소 목격했습니다. 직접 비무장지대를 걸었고, 한미 장병들과 어깨를 나란히 했으며, 한반도의 자유와 안정을 수호한 참전용사들의 놀라운 헌신을 눈으로 확인했습니다.

Today, our mission is as important as ever. The KDVA Strategic Plan for 2025–2029 outlines an ambitious roadmap to grow our membership, deepen our engagement, and expand our impact. We will build stronger connections among our 46,000 members and more than 116,000 social media followers. We will amplify the voices of Veterans and ensure the next generation understands the vital role they played — and continue to play — in defending peace and democracy.

오늘날 전우회의 사명은 그 어느 때보다 중요합니다. 2025–2029 KDVA 전략 계획 은 회원 수를 키우고, 사회참여도를 높이며, 그 영향력을 확대하기 위한 야심찬 로드맵을 제시하고 있습니다. 우리는 46,000명의 회원과 116,000명이 넘는 소셜 미디어 팔로워 간의 유대를 더욱 강화할 것입니다. 우리는 참전용사들의 목소리를 더욱 키우고, 다음 세대로 하여금 이 희생이 평화와 민주주의 수호에 기여한 바를 이해하도록 할 것입니다.

I look forward to working alongside our new Vice Chairman, LTG (Ret.) Mike Bills, our Board of Directors, Advisors, dedicated staff, and tireless volunteers. Together, we will expand KDVA’s reach, foster new partnerships, and deliver programs that reflect the honor and pride of our service.

신임 부회장 마이크 빌스 예비역 중장, 이사회, 자문위원단, 헌신적인 직원들, 끊임없이 수고해주시는 자원봉사자들과 함께하게 되어 기대가 큽니다. 우리는 함께 KDVA의 영향력을 확장하고, 새로운 파트너십을 구축하며, 우리의 복무에서 비롯된 명예와 자부심을 반영하는 프로그램들을 실행해 나갈 것입니다.

To our members and supporters: this is your Association. Your service, stories, and support make KDVA what it is. I invite each of you to stay engaged, bring in new members, and share your experiences. If you haven’t already, please connect with us online, attend an event, or join a chapter or campus club.

회원 및 지지자 여러분, KDVA는 바로 여러분의 단체입니다. 여러분의 복무 경험, 나누는 이야기, 꾸준한 지지가 KDVA를 만들어갑니다. 여러분 모두가 지속적으로 참여하고, 새로운 회원을 초대하고, 소중한 경험을 나누시기를 바랍니다. 아직 KDVA와 함께하지 않으신다면 온라인으로 가입해주시고, 각종 행사에 참석하거나 지부 또는 캠퍼스 클럽에 힘을 보태주시기를 부탁드립니다.

As we move forward, we do so united by purpose, driven by service, and committed to building an even stronger ROK-U.S. Alliance.

우리는 공동의 목적 아래 하나로 뭉쳐 앞으로 나아가고, 봉사의 정신에 의해 행동하며, 더욱 강력한 한미동맹을 구축하는 데 헌신할 것입니다.

“Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance,”

“한미동맹을 위하여, 함께!”

Robert B. “Abe” Abrams

General, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Chairman & President

Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA)

로버트 B. “에이브” 에이브럼스
미국 육군 예비역 대장
회장 겸 이사장
주한미군전우회(KDVA)

Farewell Message from General (Ret.) Curtis M. Scaparrotti

Outgoing KDVA Chairman and President

May 29, 2025

커티스 M. 스카파로티(Curtis M. Scaparrotti) 예비역 장군 전언

주한미군전우회 회장 겸 이사장 이임자

2025년 5월 29일

Gen. (Ret.) Curtis Scaparrotti

Outgoing KDVA Chairman & President

커티스 M. 스카파로티 (예비역 대장)

주한미군전우회 (KDVA) 회장 겸 이사장 이임자

To the Members and Supporters of KDVA,

KDVA의 회원 및 지지자 여러분께,

As I complete my tenure as Chairman and President of the Korea Defense Veterans Association, I do so with a deep sense of pride, gratitude, and optimism for the future of this extraordinary organization. It has been an honor to serve alongside so many of you — Veterans, family members, supporters, and advocates of the ROK-U.S. Alliance — who have committed yourselves to a cause greater than any one individual: honoring our service and strengthening the enduring bond between the Republic of Korea and the United States.

주한미군전우회(KDVA)의 회장 겸 이사장으로서의 임기를 마치는 지금 이 탁월한 조직이 주는 깊은 자부심과 감사 그리고 전우회의 미래에 대한 기대를 느끼며 인사를 드립니다. 대한민국과 미국 간의 지속적인 유대를 강화하고 우리의 군 복무를 기리는 이 위대한 사명을 위해 헌신해 오신 참전용사, 그 가족 분들, 전우회의 지지자 및 한미동맹 옹호자 여러분과 함께 일할 수 있었던 것은 큰 영광이었습니다.

When I began this role in 2023, I set out to listen, learn, and lead with humility and purpose. My 41+ years in uniform taught me that real leadership is grounded in service and unity. From my days commanding in Korea to my time working with KDVA’s dedicated team, I’ve witnessed firsthand the powerful legacy of our Alliance — an alliance built not just on a mutual defense treaty and military commands, but on friendships, sacrifice, and shared values.

2023년에 이 직책을 맡았을 때, 겸손함과 목적의식을 가지고 듣고 배우며 이끌 것을 다짐했습니다. 41년이 넘는 복무 기간 동안 진정한 리더십이란 봉사 정신과 협동심에 기반을 두고 있다는 것을 배웠기 때문입니다. 한국에서의 지휘 경험에서 시작해 KDVA의 헌신적인 팀과 함께한 시간을 마치기까지, 저는 우리의 동맹이 지닌 강력한 유산을 직접 목격해 왔습니다. 한미동맹은 단지 상호 방위 조약과 군사 명령체계에 의해서만이 아니라 우정과 희생, 공유된 가치 위에 구축된 공고한 동맹이라는 사실을 말입니다.

Together, we’ve achieved so much. We increased our membership (over 46,000 with over 116,000 social media followers), opened KDVA Chapters all over the United States, launched impactful programs, supported our Veterans, and reached across generations and borders to make sure that our stories are told and our voices are heard. The recently launched 2025-2029 KDVA Strategic Plan sets a bold and clear path forward to grow our membership, amplify our voice in Alliance discussions, and foster deep relationships with those who have served — and still serving — in Korea.

우리는 함께 많은 것을 이루어냈습니다. 주한미군전우회의 회원 수는 46,000명을 넘었고, 소셜 미디어 팔로워는 116,000명이 넘습니다. 미국 전역에 KDVA 지부를 설립하고, 영향력 있는 프로그램을 시작했으며, 참전용사들을 지원하고, 세대와 국경을 넘어 우리의 이야기가 전달되고 소중한 목소리가 널리 퍼지도록 힘썼습니다. 최근 발표된 2025-2029 KDVA 전략 계획은 향후 우리의 회원 기반을 확장하고, 동맹 관련 논의에서 우리의 목소리를 키우며, 한국에서 복무했거나 현재도 복무 중인 군인들과의 깊은 관계를 형성하는 명확하고 대담한 비전을 제시하고 있습니다.

None of this would have been possible without the exceptional people at KDVA, our board members, advisors, volunteers, and staff … and especially without the unrelenting support of our fundraising partner, the Korea-US Alliance Foundation (KUSAF). I am truly thankful.

이 모든 일은 KDVA의 뛰어난 인재들, 이사진, 고문단, 자원봉사자 및 직원들, 그리고 특히 전우회의 기금을 조달하는 한미동맹재단(KUSAF)의 끊임없는 지원이 없었다면 불가능했을 것입니다. 이에 진심으로 감사드립니다.

I am proud to pass the torch to a friend, a trusted colleague, and a proven leader, General (Ret.) Robert B. “Abe” Abrams. With Lieutenant General (Ret.) Mike Bills stepping in as Vice Chairman, I know that KDVA’s leadership is in trusted hands. Their experience, vision, and dedication will propel KDVA into its next era of growth and impact.

오랜 친구이자 신뢰하는 동료이며 입증된 리더인 로버트 B. “에이브” 에이브럼스 예비역 대장에게 자리를 이임하게 되어 자랑스럽습니다. 또한 마이크 빌스 예비역 중장이 부회장으로 합류함에 따라 KDVA의 리더십은 신뢰할 만한 이들에게 맡겨졌음을 확신합니다. 그들의 경험, 비전, 헌신은 KDVA가 다음 단계로 성장하고 더욱 큰 영향력을 행사하도록 이끌 것입니다.

Though I am stepping down from this role, I’m not stepping away. I look forward to continuing to serve as a member of the KDVA Council of Advisors, where I will remain committed to advancing KDVA’s mission and supporting the great Alliance that means so much to all of us.

비록 저는 이 역할에서 물러나지만, KDVA 자문위원회 위원으로 활동하며 KDVA의 사명을 추진하는 데 기여하고 우리 모두에게 큰 의미가 있는 위대한 한미동맹을 계속해서 지원할 것입니다.

Thank you for the privilege to serve with you. I encourage each of you to stay engaged, share your stories, and invite others to join us. The work of KDVA is far from finished, and its future is brighter than ever.

여러분과 함께 일할 수 있었던 것은 큰 특권이었습니다. 여러분 모두가 계속해서 힘을 보태고, 이야기를 나누며, 더 많은 이들이 전우회와 함께하도록 초대해주시기를 바랍니다. KDVA가 걸어갈 원대한 여정은 기나길고, 그 미래는 그 어느 때보다 밝습니다.

With sincere gratitude, respect, and always, “Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance,”

진심 어린 감사와 존경을 담아, 항상 “한미동맹을 위하여, 함께!”

Curtis M. Scaparrotti

General, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Outgoing Chairman & President

Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA)

커티스 M. 스카파로티
미국 육군 예비역 대장
회장 겸 이사장 이임자
주한미군전우회(KDVA)

KDVA Chairman and Vice Chairman Changes

May 20, 2025

KDVA 회장 및 부회장 교체

2025년 5월 20일

The Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) is honored to announce an important leadership transition on June 1, 2025, that marks a new chapter in the organization’s growth and continued commitment to the ROK-U.S. Alliance.

주한미군전우회(KDVA)는 2025년 6월 1일부로 조직의 성장과 한미동맹에 대한 지속적인 헌신을 상징하는, 주요 지도부 교체를 발표합니다.

Gen. (Ret.) Curtis Scaparrotti

Outgoing KDVA Chairman & President

전임 회장 겸 이사장

커티스 스카퍼로티 (Curtis M. Scaparrotti) 예비역 대장

KDVA 전임 회장 겸 이사장

Gen. (Ret.) Curtis M. Scaparrotti, who has served with distinction as KDVA Chairman and President, will transition from his leadership role and join the KDVA Council of Advisors, continuing his contributions to KDVA in an advisory capacity.

스카퍼로티 예비역 대장은 KDVA 회장 겸 이사장으로서의 직무를 마무리하고, 향후 KDVA 자문위원회에서 자문 역할로서 소임을 다할 예정입니다.

Robert B. “Abe” Abrams

Incoming KDVA Chairman & President

신임 회장 겸 이사장

로버트 B. “에이브” 에이브럼스 (Robert B. “Abe” Abrams) 예비역 대장
KDVA 신임 회장 겸 이사장

Succeeding Gen. (Ret.) Scaparrotti will be Gen. (Ret.) Robert B. “Abe” Abrams who served as the KDVA Vice Chairman. Gen. Abrams previously served as the Commander of United Nations Command, ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Command, and U.S. Forces Korea, and brings decades of leadership experience, deep commitment to the Alliance, and a strong vision for KDVA’s future.

스카퍼로티 전임 회장의 뒤를 이어 KDVA 부회장직을 맡고 있던 에이브럼스 예비역 대장이 KDVA 회장으로 취임합니다. 에이브럼스 대장은 한미연합사령부, 유엔군사령부, 주한미군 사령관으로 복무한 바 있으며, 수십 년간의 리더십 경험과 동맹에 대한 깊은 헌신, KDVA의 미래에 대한 강력한 비전을 두루 갖춘 인물입니다.

Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mike Bills

Incoming KDVA Vice Chairman

신임 부회장

마이클 A. “마이크” 빌스 (Mike Bills) 예비역 중장

KDVA 신임 부회장

In addition, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Michael A. “Mike” Bills will step into the role of Vice Chairman of KDVA. Gen. Bills is currently a KDVA Board member and previously served as the Commander of the Eighth U.S. Army in Korea. His leadership and operational experience in Korea will further strengthen KDVA’s impact.

또한, KDVA 이사회 멤버로 활동해온 빌스 예비역 중장이 KDVA 부회장직을 맡게 됩니다. 빌스 중장은 주한 미 제8군 사령관으로 복무한 경력이 있으며, 빌스 부회장의 리더십과 한반도에서의 작전 경험은 KDVA의 활동에 큰 힘이 될 것입니다.

Outgoing KDVA Chairman and President, Gen. Scaparrotti, shared,

“It has been my great honor to serve KDVA and its vital mission of enhancing the ROK-U.S. Alliance and honoring our Veterans. I have the utmost confidence in Gen. Abrams and Gen. Bills to lead KDVA into its next chapter with vision and purpose. I look forward to continuing to support this noble cause as a KDVA Advisor.”

퇴임하는 스카퍼로티 회장은 다음과 같이 술회했습니다.

“KDVA와 그 중요한 사명을 위해 봉사한 것은 저에게 큰 영광이었습니다. 저는 KDVA가 한미동맹을 강화하고 참전용사를 기리는 사명을 이어가리라는 확신을 가지고 있습니다. 에이브럼스 대장과 빌스 중장이 이 비전과 목적을 가지고 KDVA를 훌륭히 이끌 것이라 믿습니다. 저는 앞으로 자문위원으로서 이 고귀한 사명을 계속 지원할 것입니다.”

Incoming KDVA Chairman & President, Gen. (Ret.) Robert Abrams commented,

“It is a tremendous honor to lead KDVA at this important moment in its growth. The ROK-U.S. Alliance is a model of strength and shared friendships, and I look forward to advancing our mission to honor the Veterans who built and defended it.  KDVA has a vital role in uniting the generations of Americans and Koreans who served together. I am deeply committed to ensuring their legacy is remembered and their voices are heard.”

신임 회장 에이브럼스 대장은 다음의 소감을 남겼습니다.

“KDVA가 성장하는 중요한 시점에 회장직을 맡게 되어 큰 영광입니다. 한미동맹은 강력한 우정과 연대를 바탕으로 한 모범적인 동맹입니다. 이를 구축하고 지켜낸 참전용사들을 기리는 KDVA의 사명을 전진시키는 데 최선을 다하겠습니다. KDVA는 세대를 잇는 미국과 한국의 참전용사들을 하나로 묶는 중요한 역할을 하고 있으며, 그들의 유산이 기억되고 목소리가 전달되도록 깊이 헌신하겠습니다.”

Incoming KDVA Vice Chairman, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mike Bills stated,

“I’ve proudly supported KDVA for years, and I’m honored to step into this leadership role to help expand our reach and deepen our impact.  The Alliance is more than a military partnership — it’s a bond of trust forged through service and sacrifice. I’m excited to work with our members to reinforce connections and support for our Veterans.”

신임 부회장 빌스 중장도 다음과 같이 각오를 다졌습니다.

“오랫동안 KDVA를 지원해왔던 일원으로서 전우회의 역할을 확대하고 역량을 강화하는 리더의 역할을 맡게 되어 매우 영광입니다. 한미동맹은 단순한 군사적 협력 이상으로, 봉사와 희생을 통해 쌓아온 신뢰의 유대입니다. 저는 회원들과 함께 우리 참전용사들을 위한 연결과 지지를 더욱 공고히 하고자 합니다.”

KDVA sincerely thanks Gen. Scaparrotti for his steadfast leadership and welcomes Gen. Abrams and Gen. Bills as they assume their new roles. The Association looks forward to building on its durable foundation to expand programs; grow membership; get our 45,000 members and 116,000 social media followers more connected and involved; and deepen support for the ROK-U.S. Alliance and Veterans of both nations.

KDVA는 스카퍼로티 대장의 굳건한 리더십에 진심으로 감사하며, 에이브럼스 대장과 빌스 중장의 새로운 역할 수행을 진심으로 환영합니다. KDVA는 이 든든한 토대를 바탕으로 프로그램을 확장하고, 회원 수를 늘리며, 45,000명의 회원과 116,000명의 소셜 미디어 팔로워들과의 접점을 키우고, 한미동맹과 양국 참전용사들에 대한 지지를 꾸준히 표하는 기관으로 성장하겠습니다.

Learn more at kdva.vet and join KDVA for free!

자세한 내용을 kdva.vet에서 확인하고 무료로 KDVA와 함께하시기 바랍니다!

Announcement_KDVA Chairman Change

KDVA Introduces the second KDVA Campus Club in the United States.

The Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) is very excited to announce the 1st U.S of 2025. KDVA Campus Club at Millersville University located in Millersville, PA. The KDVA Campus Club (KCC) is led by Club President Ashley Via with support from Mr. David Owen, Faculty Advisor.

The Millersville University KDVA Campus Club is excited to bring together students with common interests to increase awareness and advocacy of the ROK-U.S. Alliance and our Veterans. With the support of KDVA, they will host Meet and Greets, Webinars, Conferences, Korean Cultural Experiences, and more.

Club President, Ashley Via said, “I’m truly excited to see KCC-MU become a space where we can honor the enduring partnership between South Korea and the United States, while building a supportive community of military-affiliated students.”

Ashley Via served in the U.S. Army for five years as a Behavioral Health Specialist, earning the rank of Staff Sergeant before transitioning to civilian life. During her time in service, she was stationed primarily at Fort Sill, OK, where she gained hands-on experience in mental health support and crisis intervention. Now in her first year at Millersville University, Ashley is pursuing a degree in Psychology.

Mr. David Owen, KCC MU Faculty Advisor said, “Once I learned about KDSA’s mission and its plans to establish campus clubs across the U.S. to promote that mission, I was genuinely excited. Having served in the U.S. Air Force on the Korean Peninsula at Osan Air Base, I deeply understand the importance of the U.S.-South Korean alliance. The newly established KCC-MU not only provides us with an opportunity to educate local communities and create a presence on campus, but it also allows me to bring together many aspects of my life, namely my military service, life experiences in Asia, and teaching—in meaningful ways that benefit others. I am truly excited about what the future holds for KCC-MU and KDSA.”

Dr. David A. Owen holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Politics and Asian Studies from Southern Illinois University. He is currently an Associate Professor of International Politics at Millersville University of Pennsylvania, a position he has held since 2013. Before joining Millersville University, Dr. Owen spent approximately 17 years living in East and Southeast Asia. His career began in the U.S. Air Force, where he served for about 9 years, primarily on the Korean Peninsula and in mainland Japan.

Dr. Owen has been teaching since 1999, starting with faculty appointments at esteemed universities in East and Southeast Asia. He has published research on political attitudes and behavior across multiple countries, including Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, North Korea, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam. His work has appeared in respected scholarly journals such as the Journal of Communist and Post-Communist Studies, the Journal of Chinese Political Science, and Asian Politics and Policy, among others. His experience in the region began with his assignment at Osan Air Base, South Korea.

Did you know that anyone can start a KDVA Campus Club at any American or Korean college/university? KDVA will cover the cost of ALL activities. If interested, please connect with Ms. Ambrie Jones (KCC Coordinator) ambrie.kdva@gmail.com, register the KDVA Campus Club with your institution, and plan and run your activities about Korea, the ROK-U.S. Alliance, and Veterans. It’s that simple!

Here is information about the KDVA Campus Clubs: https://kdva.vet/campus/.

KDVA is a nonpolitical, nonprofit organization registered in Virginia with operations in the United States and South Korea.

Ambrie Jones

KDVA Campus Club Coordinator

KDVA is very excited to announce the second KDVA Campus Club in the United States. The campus club is located at the Millersville University in Millersville, Pennsylvania.

Our Millersville University KDVA Campus Club will launch its first Meet & Greet on Monday, April 21, 2025.

What: Millersville University KDVA Campus Club Launch Meet & Greet
When: April 21st from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: Ford Atrium in Mccomsey Hall on Millersville University’s Campus
43 East Frederick St. Millersville, PA 17551

The event is free! Please register by April 20 to ensure we can accommodate all attendees.

Free parking in Parking Area 1 or Parking Area 2.

REGISTER