The History of KDVA
From an idea to bring together those who served in Korea to a worldwide community of more than 60,000 members, the Korea Defense Veterans Association continues to honor service and strengthen the ROK-U.S. Alliance.
Our Story
The idea for KDVA began in 2014 with a vision to bring together Service Members and Veterans who served in the Republic of Korea.
Over the following years, that idea grew through discussions with the ROK Embassy in the United States, former commanders and deputy commanders, other USFK leaders, and organizations committed to the ROK-U.S. Alliance.
In 2017, the Korea Defense Veterans Association was incorporated as a nonprofit organization and formally began building a community dedicated to honoring Korea Defense Veterans and strengthening the Alliance.
The KDVA Story
Key moments in the growth of the Korea Defense Veterans Association and its worldwide community.
The Idea Begins
An initiative begins to gather Service Members and Veterans who served in the Republic of Korea.
Building Support
Ideas are exchanged with the ROK Embassy in the United States and former commanders, deputy commanders, and other USFK leaders.
Preparing to Launch
Support for the formation of KDVA grows through the ROK Embassy and the KATUSA Veterans Association.
KDVA Is Established
In April, KDVA is incorporated in Virginia as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
Gen. (Ret.) Walter “Skip” Sharp becomes KDVA Chairman and President.
In May, KDVA holds its Foundation Ceremony in Washington, D.C.
Expanding KDVA
In April, Col. (Ret.) Steve Lee becomes KDVA Senior Vice President.
Gen. (Ret.) Vincent K. Brooks
On October 1, Gen. (Ret.) Vincent K. Brooks becomes KDVA Chairman and President.
Gen. (Ret.) Curtis M. Scaparrotti
On February 1, Gen. (Ret.) Curtis M. Scaparrotti becomes KDVA Chairman and President.
Gen. (Ret.) Robert B. “Abe” Abrams
On June 1, Gen. (Ret.) Robert B. “Abe” Abrams becomes KDVA Chairman and President.
More Than 60,000 Members Worldwide
By May 2026, KDVA grows to more than 60,000 members worldwide.
History in Pictures
From KDVA's early years to a growing community connecting Korea Defense Veterans and supporters of the ROK-U.S. Alliance.
KDVA's Early Years
ROK-U.S. Alliance Community
Building the KDVA Community
From an Idea to a Worldwide Community
The Meaning Behind the KDVA Logo
Each element of the KDVA logo represents the people, service, and Alliance at the heart of our organization.
What the Logo Represents
- Crossed ROK and U.S. Flags: Represent the strength of the ROK-U.S. Alliance.
- Four Stars: Represent UNC, CFC, and USFK, commanded by a four-star General, while honoring the people who make up the KDVA community.
- First Star: Korean War Veterans.
- Second Star: Korea Defense Veterans and Service Members, including USFK, KATUSA, and CFC (ROK) personnel who served after the Korean War.
- Third Star: Family members.
- Fourth Star: Department of Defense civilians who served in the Republic of Korea.
- Laurel: Represents the honors of Veterans.
- USFK / KATUSA / CFC: Represents the Service Members and Veterans who form the heart of KDVA.
“Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance”
Join Our Worldwide Community
KDVA brings together Veterans, Service Members, families, civilians, students, and supporters who share a connection to Korea and the ROK-U.S. Alliance. Membership is free.
Explore KDVA Membership