Our History
What began as an idea to bring together those who served in the Republic of Korea has grown into a worldwide community dedicated to Veterans, Service Members, families, supporters, and the enduring ROK-U.S. Alliance.
From an Idea to an Alliance Community
KDVA was created to bring together the people who served, supported, and strengthened the Republic of Korea–United States Alliance.
Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance
The idea for KDVA began in 2014 with a goal of gathering Service Members and Veterans who served in the Republic of Korea.
Over the following years, ideas were exchanged with the ROK Embassy in the United States, former commanders and leaders of USFK units, and the KATUSA Veterans Association.
Those efforts helped transform the idea into an organization. In 2017, the Korea Defense Veterans Association was incorporated as a nonprofit organization in Virginia and held its Foundation Ceremony in Washington, D.C.
The KDVA Timeline
From the first conversations about connecting Korea Defense Veterans to the growth of a worldwide Alliance community.
The Idea Begins
The idea 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 leaders of USFK units.
Moving Toward Formation
Support from the ROK Embassy and the KATUSA Veterans Association helps drive the formation of the organization.
KDVA Is Established
In April, KDVA is incorporated as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia. General (Ret.) Walter “Skip” Sharp becomes Chairman and President. In May, KDVA holds its Foundation Ceremony in Washington, D.C.
Organizational Growth
In April, Colonel (Ret.) Steve Lee becomes Senior Vice President of KDVA.
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
KDVA continues growing into an international community of Veterans, Service Members, families, civilians, students, and supporters of the ROK-U.S. Alliance.
Moments From KDVA's Early Years
Images from KDVA's archives reflect the people, partnerships, and events that helped shape the organization and its commitment to the Alliance.
KDVA Foundation Ceremony
Leaders and supporters gather for the KDVA Foundation Ceremony in Washington, D.C.
ROK-U.S. Partnership
Military and civilian leaders representing the enduring partnership between the Republic of Korea and the United States.
Building the KDVA Community
An early KDVA membership presentation representing the organization's commitment to connecting Korea Defense Veterans.
From an Idea to a Worldwide Community
KDVA's history is ultimately the story of the people who built, served, supported, and continue to strengthen the ROK-U.S. Alliance.
An idea to connect the Service Members and Veterans who served in Korea.
KDVA formally becomes a nonprofit organization dedicated to Veterans and the Alliance.
By May 2026, KDVA had grown to more than 60,000 members around the world.
The Meaning Behind the KDVA Logo
The KDVA emblem represents the people, service, partnership, and shared commitment at the heart of the ROK-U.S. Alliance.
ROK & U.S. Flags
The crossed Republic of Korea and United States flags symbolize the strong ROK-U.S. Alliance.
Four Stars
The four stars represent UNC/CFC/USFK, commanded by a four-star general.
First Star
Represents Korean War Veterans.
Second Star
Represents Korea Defense Veterans and Service Members, including USFK, KATUSA, and CFC personnel following the Korean War.
Third Star
Represents family members of Veterans and Service Members.
Fourth Star
Represents Department of Defense civilians who served in the Republic of Korea.
Laurel
Represents the honor bestowed upon Veterans and their service.
USFK / KATUSA / CFC
Recognizes the communities represented throughout KDVA membership.
Help Write the Next Chapter of KDVA
KDVA continues to bring together generations of people who built and serve the ROK-U.S. Alliance. Join the community and help preserve its history, support its Veterans, and strengthen the Alliance for the future.